Amidst rising temperatures over the Syrian conflict particularly after the recent use of chemical weapons in the suburbs of Damascus, India has said that there is no military solution to the ongoing conflict.
India’s remarks are significant in the backdrop of the military strike being contemplated by the US which at one point appeared imminent. However, President Barack Obama later decided to seek congesssional approval for any military intervention in Syria.
The UK has already backed out of the proposed military action after the House of Commons defeated Prime Minister David Cameron’s proposal that British forces take part in military action in Syria.
French President Francois Hollande too has said that he would wait for a parliamentary vote before committing France to a military attack on Syria.
External affairs minister Salman Khurshid told reporters on the sidelines of a function in the capital on Tuesday that India is keeping a close watch on the developments in Syria.
External affairs ministry spokesperson Syed Akbaruddin said in a statement on Tuesday:” There can be no military solution to this conflict.” he also noted that “India has consistently called upon all sides to abjure violence so that conditions can be created for an inclusive political dialogue leading to a comprehensive political solution, taking into account the legitimate aspirations of the Syrian people.”
New Delhi also said that it continues to support the proposed international conference on Syria (Geneva-II) by virtue of “ being the best prospect for a political solution, for bringing the Syrian government and the opposition to the negotiating table”.
As for the alleged use of chemical weapons by the Assad regime in Syria, New Delhi said that it would like to wait for the full results of the UN inspection.
At the same time, India has said that anywhere and by anyone should not be breached.