Statement On Syria Sanctions
(May 11, 2004)
Today, I have signed an Executive
Order implementing sanctions on Syria pursuant to the Syria
Accountability and Lebanese Sovereignty Restoration Act of 2003.
These sanctions will significantly reduce the level of trade and commercial
activity between our two countries, and in particular target entities
and officials in or closely associated with the Syrian government who
have engaged in actions of concern specified in the Act.
Since 1979, the United States has designated Syria
a State Sponsor of Terrorism due to its support for groups such as Hizballah and Palestinian terrorist
organizations. In 2003, Congress passed the SAA because of Syria's
continued support for terrorism, pursuit of weapons of mass destruction,
occupation of Lebanon, and
actions undermining U.S. and international efforts with respect to Iraq.
Based on Syria's failure to take significant, concrete steps to address
the concerns we have raised, I have determined that further economic
sanctions be imposed.
The Syrian government must understand that its conduct
alone will determine the duration of the sanctions, and the extent to
which additional sanctions may be imposed should the Syrian government
fail to adopt a more constructive approach to relations with its neighbors,
weapons of mass destruction, and terrorism.
If the Syrian government demonstrates a genuine intention
to seek true peace by confronting terror and violence, ending its pursuit
and development of weapons of mass destruction, and respecting the sovereignty
and independence of Lebanon, the United States will respond positively.
Similarly, I urge the Syrian government to offer its
full support to the goal of a stable and sovereign Iraq, beginning with
redoubled efforts along the border to prevent the movement of foreign
fighters into Iraq. The Syrian government has taken some steps in this
regard, but must do more, given that individuals bent on sowing terror
continue to cross into Iraq from Syria. Additionally, it is time for
the Syrian government to comply with its obligations under UN Security
Council resolution 1483 and immediately transfer assets belonging to
the former Iraqi regime to the Development Fund for Iraq.
This is a momentous time in the Middle East. I call
upon the Syrian government to join the ranks of those nations that have
committed themselves to political and economic reform, a decision that
would benefit -- first and foremost -- the people of Syria. I sincerely
hope that the Syrian government will conclude that its interests are
best served by joining efforts to build a Middle East that is stable,
secure, and free from terror and violence.
Sources: The White House |