DAMASCUS, Syria, Oct. 9 (UPI) -- Syria Sunday warned the world not to recognize the newly formed coalition of opposition groups.
Foreign Minister Walid al-Moallem told reporters in Damascus there would be a price to pay for governments that consort with the Syrian National Council.
"Syria will take strong measures against any country that recognizes the opposition council formed in Turkey," al-Moallem said.
The Syrian National Council was formed last week with the expressed intent of toppling the Syrian government. The group called on the international community to take steps to protect the Syrian population amid the ongoing revolt.
Speaking at a government conference, al-Moallem scoffed at the protesters, calling them "armed terrorist groups" who were not interested in dialogue or reforms.
CNN said the minister also warned foreign governments to protect Syrian embassies and other missions from anti-government protesters. "I warn the countries who do not protect the Syrian missions in their countries, we will treat theirs equally in Damascus," he said.
