Bulgaria FM Vows to Spread Democracy over Syria

Bulgarian Foreign Minister Nikolay Mladenov renewed calls for democratization and stepping down of Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad at an Arab League - EU forum in Cairo Tuesday.

"The principles of democracy, peace, justice and human rights are universal values. They are not the ‘intellectual property’ of a civilisation or religion," stated Mladenov in his address.

"These principles are a shared wealth. And this must be recognised by every society when its people are determined to walk the path of democracy," added he.

The Bulgarian Minister of Foreign Affairs also presented his country's position regarding a three-step procedure for restoring peace in Syria.

This includes an immediate cessation of violence, and a stepping down of the embattled Assad regime, who according to Mladenov "have no place in the transition of Syria."

As a third step, the Bulgarian top diplomat sees the formation of "a transitional government that includes representatives of the opposition and the regime who are not responsible for the violence."

Mladenov also voiced full support for UN and Arab League Special Envoy for Syria Lakhdar Brahimi, and suggested that the Arab League - EU meetings be upgraded to the level of heads of state.

Minister Mladenov also spoke of the mistakes and successes, illusions and dangers during Central and Eastern Europe's transition from totalitarianism to democracy, emphasizing Bulgaria's readiness to share its knowledge with its Arab friends.

"Friendship and understanding is the key message around which we all unite," said Minister Mladenov in conclusion.

At the same time, Mouaz Al-Khatib, president of the newly-formed Syrian opposition National Coalition, requested weapons for the opposition forces at his address to the Arab League and EU meeting.

Last Thursday, Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad made a strong statement confirming his resolve to stay and fight what he sees as a just fight against destabilizing forces in Syria.

According to Assad, a falling down of his government and a possible international intervention in Syria would lead to a domino effect, demolishing peace and secularism in the Middle East.