In connection with the Syrian regime’s pledge to Special Envoy Kofi Annan that it will in principle withdraw its troops by 10 April, a Federal Foreign Office spokesperson commented as follows:

“Foreign Minister Westerwelle supports Kofi Annan’s mediation efforts. Given the daily mounting victims and casualties, it is absolutely crucial to stop the violence. Foreign Minister Westerwelle strongly urges the Syrian regime to deliver the ceasefire it promised Kofi Annan. Any further delaying tactics are unacceptable.”