Embattled Syrian President Bashar al-Assad met with journalists working for the state media on Friday and urged them “not to worry” because “victory is near,” the All4Syria website reported.
In a report titled: “What did the tyrant of the Levant tell the presenters today?” All4Syria wrote that Assad invited 20 leading state media journalists to his palace at Mount Qasioun to discuss “how to improve the media discourse over the next phase” of the conflict.
The journalists were reportedly picked up by presidential cars from the state television building at 9 a.m. and they met with President Assad for two hours.
During the meeting a TV presenter complained to Assad about the “stupidity” of some political analysts who comment on the state television, the website said. Assad replied: “You are right!”
“Don't worry and don't be afraid, victory is near,” Assad added. “Focus on promoting the idea that dialogue is the best solution,” he urged the journalists.
“We will liberate Jouber within days and will then go to Douma; I am content with regards to the Security situation in Damascus,” Assad said.
At the end of the meeting, he pledged bonuses and pay raises for journalists.
