Festival at Damascus Citadel to Support Reform

(Ahlul Bayt News Agency) - The "Syria is Fine" festival at Damascus Citadel kicked off on Friday evening with the participation of hundreds of Syrians and the presence of Syrian and Arab political and media figures.

The three-day festival began with an unveiling of a panoramic mosaic of President Bashar al-Assad on the wall of Damascus Citadel. The mosaic, measuring 35 by 8 meters, consists of smaller photos of President al-Assad forming the panoramic image.

A number of Syrian and Arab political and media figures and artist were honroed during the event for their support of Syria and role in uncovering the conspiracy against it, in addition to a screening of a short movie depicting the recent events in Syria and performances by the Jullanar troupe.

In a statement to SANA, Dr. Ali al-Shoaibi said that he believes that the conspiracy is nearing its end and that it will be over soon, affirming that Syria will emerge victorious, adding "Islam will be the first victor because they attempted to distort and damage it."

In turn, Chairman of the Committee for Protecting the Homeland and the Citizen Ahmad Sheikho said that being Syrian is cause for pride, and that honest people rallied to defend the country's unity in its time of need, adding that he also believes that the conspiracy is over.

Other accompanying activities included a gallery featuring old photographs of Syria and new photos from the beginning of the crisis featuring martyrs and events that were organized.

The second day of the festival will include a debate, musical and artistic performances by children, and a concert.

Thousands Gather in Bab Touma to Show Support for Reform Program

Thousands of Syrians gathered on Friday evening at Bab Touma Square in Damascus to show support for the comprehensive reform program and denounce the conspiracy against Syria and misleading media campaigns.

Participants carried Syrian flags and signs affirming national unity and saluting the Syrian army and recited patriotic songs.

Sheikh Mousa Ahmad Ibrahim from Hasaka said that participating in such a gathering is the least one could do for the country, stressing that the conspiracy against Syria has become evident to everyone.

Participants in the event voiced rejection for all forms of interference in Syria's internal affairs, calling for giving the government time to carry out reforms.

They stressed that the gathering affirms that Syrians stand as one in defiance of conspiracies, and that it signifies the Syrians' rejection of vandalism committed by armed groups in some areas.

The event included performances by a number of Syrian artists.

In Tishreen Park in Damascus, hundreds participated in a popular festivity at the park's theatre that included a performance by singer Thaer al-Ali.

National Festivity in Tartous to Show Support to Reform Process

In Tartous, The youth group of "Syria is Fine" held a national festivity to show support to the reform program led by President Bashar al-Assad, the national unity and to express rejection of the foreign interference to undermine Syria's security and stability.

Hoisting banners, national flags and chanting slogans calling for national unity, the participants started the celebration by the national anthem and observed a one minute's silence for the martyrs' souls, military and civilians.

They said this festivity is a clear response to the chaos, sabotage and terrorism experienced by Syria, stressing that the international conspiracy hatched against Syria and disturbances don't serve the reform and development process but aim at shedding more blood.

They also condemned acts of incitement and media mobilization committed by many TV channels to cause trouble and chaos in Syria.

On another hand, the National Unity Youth Convoy in Tartous organized a parade of cars in Sheikh Badr region and honored the families of martyrs in support of the comprehensive reform program and rejection of plots against Syria and conspirators.

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