Britain recalls envoy in Syria for consultation

Oregon Telegraph (IANS) Monday 6th February, 2012

British Foreign Secretary William Hague has said the country's ambassador in Syria has been recalled for consultation, following America's move to withdraw all diplomats from Damascus.

The foreign secretary, while addressing the House of Commons, said Monday that the Syrian ambassador in London has also been summoned to the Foreign Office to hear a British protest over the violence in the country.

Hague said Britain remains committed to guard the safety of the Syrian embassy in London despite protests that have been taken place in recent days outside the office.

He also urged the Syrian government to do the same for the British embassy in the capital city of Damascus.

He said that despite all differences, Britain will continue to work with Russia and China, as well as within the European Union to address the pressing issue in Syria.

The US Monday closed its embassy in Syria and pulled out its staff, including ambassador Robert Ford, over security concerns, the State Department said.

"The US has suspended operations of our embassy in Damascus as of February 6. Ambassador Ford and all American personnel have now departed the country," State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland said in a statement.