Lavrov: Syrian Opposition Sponsors Had Only Replacement of Gov’t in Mind
Local Editor
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov condemned the sponsors of the Syrian opposition, saying they only hand in mind replacing the Syrian government. He also stressed that Geneva II has no "artificial deadlines".
Russia has the impression that, in persuading Syria's external opposition to join the Geneva II conference, its sponsors had only the replacement of the regime in mind, Lavrov said at a press conference after talks with German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier in Moscow on Friday.
"They are prepared to discuss other issues, in the first place, the fight against terrorism, only after the creation of a transitional body, because 'in the field' government troops are confronted with the armed opposition," he noted.
Lavrov went on to say that the Syrian government was prepared to discuss the implementation of the Geneva communique in full.
"When the Russian-American initiative was announced, it was said clearly that these negotiations should not have any artificially set time parameters, or any artificial deadlines."
On another note, Lavrov once again warned the West against interfering in the political crisis in Ukraine.
Lavrov said Ukraine's citizens should be allowed to resolve matters themselves.
"We believe Ukrainians themselves should find a way out of the political crisis," Lavrov said, adding, "We expect all other partners of Ukraine to follow the same principle."
Source: Agencies
Comments
- Related News
Putin Envoy to Visit Washington
2 months ago
Putin: Russia to Finish Off Ukrainian Forces
3 months ago
