DHAKA: A UN General Assembly committee condemned Syria for widespread human rights abuses and expressed concern about such violations in Iran, North Korea and Myanmar, but also welcomed pledges by Iran and Myanmar’s presidents to improve some areas.

The draft resolution on Iran was approved with 83 votes in favour, 36 against and 62 abstentions; the draft on Syria was adopted with 123 votes in favour, 13 against and 46 abstentions; while the drafts on North Korea and Myanmar passed by consensus, although some states disassociated themselves with the texts.

The draft resolutions were approved by the 193-nation assembly’s Third Committee, which focuses on human rights, and will be put to formal votes next month in the General Assembly.

They are expected to pass with similar support, reports The Jerusalem Post.

BDST: 1734 HRS, NOV 20, 2013
RoR/BSK