Damascus, (SANA) – Speaker of the People's Assembly Dr. Mahmoud al-Abrash discussed on Tuesday with the European Parliament's Delegation for Relations with the Mashreq Countries (EPDRMC) headed by Chairman of the delegation Mario David parliamentary and bilateral relations, means for developing them, and regional developments.

The two sides agreed to form a parliamentary friendship association between the People's Assembly and the European Parliament to help boost Syrian-European relations.

Al-Abrash underlined the need for bolstering relations between the People's Assembly and the EPDRMC and the role of MPs in relaying viewpoints among countries.

He also called for EU countries to play a greater role in pushing the peace process in the region forward, pressuring Israel to open crossing points, lifting the siege imposed on Gaza Strip, and stopping the Israeli hostile policies aiming at Judaizing Jerusalem and wiping out its Arab and Islamic identity.

Al-Abrash affirmed Syria's commitment to achieving just and comprehensive peace, noting that Israel's continued occupation of Arab lands and hostile policies towards the Palestinian people and religious sanctities hinder achieving peace and stability in the region.

For their part, members of the delegation pointed out to the importance of exchanging visits and expertise between the two sides in order to improve and develop parliamentary relations.

The delegation also held a meeting with the Arab and Foreign Affairs Committee at the People's Assembly.

H. Sabbagh / M. O.