Syrian president meets artists on domestic unrest

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad stressed Saturday the importance of respecting all opinions regarding the situation in the country, Syria's SANA news agency reported.

Al-Assad's remarks came during his meeting with a delegation of Syrian artists including actors and directors.

Talks touched upon the recent unrest in the country and the role of the artists in spreading awareness of the plots targeting Syria and its security and stability.

The artists voiced support for the reform process under the leadership of President al-Assad, affirming readiness to exert all efforts for the sake of Syria's future, security and prosperity.

Syria has been in unrest for more than seven weeks after the anti-government demonstrations broke out in the southern province of Daraa. The protests have spread to several other cities, leading to the death of dozens of protesters and policemen.

The ruling Baath party of Syria, which ruled the country for decades, has announced a package of reforms, including the increase of salaries and release of political detainees.

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