PARIS — Syrian President Bashar Assad says the policies of some Western countries — including France — in the Middle East are partly responsible for the expansion of terrorism.
He urged French President Francois Hollande to change his policies and "work for the interest of the French people." He criticized Hollande for ignoring that some of his allies support "terrorists" in Syria — a phrase he uses for all armed factions in Syria.
Assad says his country warned three years ago what would happen in Europe if the West continued to support "terrorists" in his country. He spoke Saturday as he met with French lawmakers in Damascus.
At least 127 people died in Friday night's gun-and-bombing rampages in Paris. The Islamic State group has claimed responsibility.
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