Britain wants to recognize Syrian opposition

Sheikh Moaz al-Khatib, the president of the Syrian opposition coalition, made a commitment here Friday to reach out to all opposition groups and communities in Syria, to respect human rights, to finalise a clear plan for political transition in Syria. He also pledged to demonstrate that the coalition can be a credible political alternative to the Assad regime. This came during the meeting UK Foreign secretary William Hague held here this morning with a delegation of the Syrian opposition. Following the talks, Hague told a news conference at the Foreign Office that "there's still a lot of work to be done". He revealed that in-depth discussions will now take place here in London today with a wide range of countries about how the international community can channel assistance more effectively to the people of Syria, and build up links with the new coalition. The Foreign secretary said the meeting today "will focus on the practicalities of those things. We will have further discussions in the European Union on Monday in Brussels, which I will attend, about Syria, and about the assistance we can give to the coalition and the people of Syria". Hague said that he will make a further statement to the House of Commons next week about the UK approach, but he voiced the hope that this meeting today: "will mark a turning point for the Syrian people and that it will begin major steps towards a political transition in Syria". The minister said he was encouraged by what he has heard and seen from the leaders of the coalition. Hague said he hoped the discussions in London today will bring greater assistance to tens of thousands of people suffering today in Syria. He said the humanitarian assistance has been increased recently and he will keep up the pressure for a diplomatic solution. Asked about Syria, Hague says he would like to be able to recognise the Syrian coalition as the sole legitimate representative of the Syrian people. He wanted "to meet them himself first.and he needs assurances about their being inclusive of all Syrian communities and their "genuine support" within Syria. "Today's meeting was an important component and the UK will continue to work on this over the next few days, Hague said.