European Union’s High Representative, Josep Borrell, said on Thursday that The elections that took place in Syria on 26 May met none of the criteria of “a genuinely democratic vote”. He added said that the elections did not contribute to the settlement of the conflict that erupted after the Arab Spring in 2011.

“Elections in Syria should take place only within the framework of a genuine political process, in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2254,” a statement from Borrell said.

The elections can only be credible, he added, if all Syrians, including internally displaced people, refugees and members of the diaspora, are able to participate in a safe, and neutral environment without threat of intimidation and in a free and fair political competition.

He stated that the EU felt the elections undermined efforts to find a sustainable solution to the Syrian conflict.

“It cannot lead to any measure of international normalisation with the Syrian regime. The political process must be fully inclusive to ensure that all segments of Syria’s society are involved in shaping the country’s future unity and reconciliation,” the statement read.

The EU said it is ready to support “free and fair elections in Syria” in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 2254 and under supervision of the UN, to the highest international standards of transparency and accountability, with all Syrians, including members of the diaspora, eligible to participate.

The EU also demanded the release of detainees and reiterated its support to the efforts of UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen to advance all aspects of this Resolution.