Switzerland recalls ambassador to Syria for consultations

Switzerland Thursday said it has recalled its ambassador to Syria for consultations as a reaction to the recent acts of violence committed by the Syrian security forces against the civilian population. The Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) made the decision due to the fact that the numerous calls from the international community to end the violence have been ignored, and "Switzerland cannot tolerate the systematic human rights violations perpetrated by the Syrian security forces against the civilian population." The recall of the ambassador is not, however, equivalent to a rupture of diplomatic relations, the FDFA said in a statement, adding that the Swiss embassy in Damascus remains open and fully operational.