Syria will \'emerge stronger\' in face of \'plotting\'

Syrian president Bashar al-Asad During a speech today at Damascus University, embattled Syrian President Bashar al-Asad expressed his regret for the martyrs who have fallen during recent events in Syria. He encouraged those who had fled to Turkey to return to their homes.
He promised that the blood of those who have fallen will not have been shed in vain, and suggested that there was a conspiracy underway to force his regime to reform.
Asad addressed Syrian citizens who have expressed attachment to the unity of their homeland and who have sacrificed everything they have to keep it united.
\"We meet today at a historic moment in our lives.  It is a moment that separates us from a past which is bloodied with disturbances and pain.  Innocent bloodshed has made every Syrian feel sad, but there is a future full of hope for our homeland which is well known for its chemistry between its different citizens, and its stability that we have enjoyed.\" 
Asad stressed that Syria is experiencing \"difficult days\" and has paid a heavy price for its security and stability due to the \"unusual atmosphere\" resulting in disturbances, the killing and terrorizing citizens, as well as the destruction of public and private properties.  Popular demonstrations have resulted in the deaths of civilians, security forces and police, and have wounded large numbers of people. 
\"This of course has meant losses for families and relatives, but an even greater loss for the country and for me personally.\" 
Asad offered his condolences to the families of these martyrs, saying, \"The only choice we have is to look to the future.  We can have this choice to make this future, instead of it being made by events, when we are in control, rather than being controlled, lead it instead of being lead.  This means we will eventually build a rich experience.\"
Asad asserted that there should be a \"deep analysis,\" where lessons can be learned in order to turn losses into gains, so the souls of the martyrs can rest in peace, and where the blood sacrificed can contribute to the strength and success of their country. 
In his speech, Asad alluded a conspiracy against his country and questioned attempts by the international community to pressure Syria.
Asad referenced videos of demonstrations which have appeared online, asking, \"Where do these sophisticated phones, which have been brought to the country, come from?\" 
Asad made a differentiation between demonstrators who have their \"needs\", and \"saboteurs\" who are taking advantage of the rest of the community.  He said, \"There is a history of three decades behind us which started with the confrontation with the Muslim Brotherhood\".
Asad has recognised that there is a problem with employment and with the issuing of passports, saying that he had given instructions to embassies three years ago telling them to issue passports for citizens.  However, he said that some citizens had been too scared to go and apply for them. 
He also discussed the amnesty that he issued recently, stating, \"I felt that it was not good enough for many, and that is why I have asked the Ministry of Justice to investigate what other aspects can be included to make sure that the amnesty can be enjoyed by many, especially by those who do not threaten the security of the country.\" 
President Asad added that others enjoy being watched on Arab satellite stations, and that some who take part in demonstrations have been paid money to take part in them for a few minutes.  He also said that some demonstrations were being used as a \"tool for destruction\", and that others are taking a sectarian attitude.  He described this group as a very small minority.