Damascus - A Syrian court reduced the sentences for twelve political activists on Wednesday who had been handed six-year jail terms for "publishing false news and threatening Syria's national morale."

Syria last December arrested the activists for their association with an organization called "Damascus Declaration group."

Established in 2005, the group includes Syrian intellectuals and calls for democratic reform in Syria and the recognition of Lebanon as an independent state.

The Syrian court reduced the original prison sentence from six years to two and a half years.

Human rights activists, foreign diplomats and the families of the detainees applauded in the court room after the court reduced the sentence.

Syria, a frequent target of western criticism for its human rights record and lack of political freedoms, has recently enjoyed improved international standing following the establishment of diplomatic relations with Lebanon and a high-profile visit by EU officials. (dpa)