In the latest developments that have surfaced in the Syrian issue, Syria’s ally Russia states that there should be talks between the Syrian government and the “full spectrum” of opposition.
Image: Reuters
Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has also urged an intensification of efforts to find a political solution to the war. Lavrov was speaking after meeting his counterparts from Saudi Arabia, Turkey and the US.
On Thursday, President Putin suggested the Syrian regime could be ready to work with some rebel groups against the so-called Islamic State.
Putin remarked that President Assad had agreed to the idea on a recent visit to Moscow.
Speaking at the start of talks in Vienna on Friday, Mr Lavrov said: “Our common position is that we need to boost efforts for the political process in the Syrian settlement. This foresees the start of full-scale talks between representatives of the Syrian government and the full spectrum of the Syrian opposition, both domestic and external – with the support of outside players.” Lavrov did not define exactly which opposition groups should be included.
US Secretary of State John Kerry, who also attended, said the talks had been “constructive” and that an expanded round of negotiations could take place next week.
The US, Turkey and Saudi Arabia all support rebel groups fighting the Syrian government. Russia backs President Assad and hosted him on Tuesday in a visit criticised by the US.
Russia has been bombing targets in Syria since last month. It says it is primarily hitting IS, but Western powers say most of the air strikes have hit rebel groups, including those backed by the West and Gulf states.
Dmitry Peskov said a political settlement was impossible without dialogue with the “legitimate president” of Syria.
Source: BBC
Tags: Syria Syrian conflict
