Ashton voices concern over situation in Qusayr

EU High Representative Catherine Ashton Sunday expressed deep concern at the ongoing fighting in Qusayr which has already caused the loss and injury of hundreds of victims and has left many civilians in an extremely critical situation. "The High Representative is appalled at the level of violence in and around the city. There will be no impunity for the perpetrators," said her spokesman, Michael Mann, in a statement. "The High Representative recalls the responsibility, in particular that of the Syrian government, to protect civilians. She demands that all parties ensure urgent and safe access to relevant organizations to ensure the evacuation of the wounded and civilians and to reach all those in need," said the statement. Ashton reiterated the urgent need for a political solution to the conflict and reasserts that the EU will spare no effort in helping to create the appropriate conditions for a successful convening of a peace conference on Syria.