Hollande reiterates support for Syrian opposition

PARIS - French President Francois Hollande on Tuesday reaffirmed Paris' support to help Syrian opposition to build a democratic political system for a post-(President Bashar) al-Assad era.

In a statement released by the Presidency office, the Elysee, Hollande promised to provide "effective support" for the efforts "in favor of a free, democratic Syria respectful of the rights of each of its communities".

In this context, he called for a large gathering of all the opposition forces to prepare a political transition with the best possible conditions.

After meeting a delegation of the opposition Syrian National Council (SNC), the president said France "will continue providing Syrian people with essential humanitarian aid. It will also be available to give them all the needed support."

Visit of SNC members was the second meeting on Syria issue this week, a move likely to silent opposition's increasing critics over Hollande's inaction to end Syrian political crisis.

French President Francois Hollande (R), French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius (2nd R) meet Syrian opposition leader of the National Council Abdelbaset Sieda (L) at the Elysee Palace, Aug 21, 2012. [Photo/Agencies]