Syria's government began what it said was a "national dialogue" with members of the opposition Sunday, as the U.S. ambassador was summoned to Damascus over his recent visit to the embattled city of Hama.

"We hope that at the end of this comprehensive meeting to announce the transition of Syria to a pluralistic democratic nation where all citizens are guided by equality and participate in the modeling of the future of their country," Syrian Vice President Faruq al-Shara said in opening remarks at the meeting.

The state-run Syrian Arab News Agency said the meeting included members of the opposition, independent activists, youth leaders and academics.

But opponents of President Bashar al-Assad's regime have criticized the Damascus University meeting, saying the government is trying to quiet widespread unrest without making meaningful changes.