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Statement by Press Secretary Dana Perino
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For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary October 30, 2008

Statement by Press Secretary Dana Perino

ÿÿWhite House News


The United States condemns the sentencing of 12 members of the Damascus
Declaration National Council to two and a half years in prison. This
judgment once again underscores the Syrian regime's contempt for the
fundamental rights and freedoms of their people.

The United States calls on the Syrian government to release immediately the
12 Damascus Declaration members, as well as all other political prisoners.
Syria must live up to its obligations under the International Covenant on
Civil and Political Rights.

The Syrian regime cannot expect to be treated as a respected member of the
international community when it engages in such systematic repression of
its own citizens.

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