Syrian pro-Assad protestors march against Arab League

13/11/11 15:34 CET

world news

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Thousands of pro-Bashar al-Assad supporters have taken to the streets of Damascus to demonstrate against the Arab League’s suspension of Syria.

The decision sparked anger last night as crowds attacked the embassies of several Arab League members.

For its part the government, is calling for an emergency Arab League summit to discuss the unrest in the country.

The Arab League’s move has been welcomed by various European states which have called for tougher sanctions. Germany’s Foreign Minister, Guido Westerwelle, says a meeting will take place this week to discuss expanding restrictions already in place.

“It’s essential that we send a common, strong signal to Syria. Repression and violence against peaceful demonstrators are in no way acceptable. The international community must be resolute in its reaction,” Westerwelle told reporters.

The Arab League also says it has plans for economic sanctions but it has not disclosed any details. Syria is accused of killing several thousand people in a bloody crackdown on pro-democracy supporters.

More about: Arab League, Bashar al-Assad, Protest, Syria

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