Washington, Aug. 25 (SANA) Syrian Emergency Task Force Executive Director Mouaz Moustafa said Syria’s removal from the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism is a victory for the Syrian people and opens new prospects for international cooperation.
In an interview with Al-Ikhbariyah Syria on Monday, Moustafa said the achievement belonged first and foremost to Syrians, who brought down the ousted regime after decades of repression, terrorism and international isolation.
He said the designation had been one of the heaviest restrictions facing Syria and that its removal marked a step toward reintegrating the country into the international community and expanding cooperation with Washington and other countries.
Moustafa highlighted efforts by Syrians and civil society organizations in the United States over the past 14 years to engage members of Congress and explain the violations suffered by the Syrian people.
He also praised the Syrian-American community for advocating for Syria and maintaining contacts with Republican and Democratic lawmakers, saying bipartisan support in Congress could provide an important foundation for future relations.
Moustafa stressed the importance of continuing to build institutional, public and political ties between Syria and the United States regardless of changes in U.S. administrations or election outcomes.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Monday authorized the formal rescission of Syria’s designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism following the completion of the required congressional review process without objection.
Syria welcomed the decision, describing it as an important shift that opens a new chapter in its international relations.
F.J./M.F.
