Moscow insists Syria’s inquiry be satisfied to probe use of chemical weapons

BUDAPEST,(ST)_Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that all Syrian parties must respect the Geneva Communiqué adopted on June 30.

In a news conference held in Budapest after concluding his talks with his Hungarian counterpart, Lavrov added that all sides of conflict in Syria must start dialogue without pre-conditions.

As for the UN response to investigate the possible use of chemical weapons in Khan al-Assal area in Aleppo, the Russian Itar Tass quoted Lavrov as saying:“We insist Syria’s concrete inquiry be satisfied to investigate the possible use of chemical weapons in March near Aleppo.”

 “Chemical weapons or chemical substances may be used in March near Aleppo. The Syrian government addressed the U.N. to investigate this case. The U.N. Secretary General said such investigation was possible. But two days later he said Syria should get access to all facilities and to all persons,” the Russian minister said.

“This is wrong and reminds us of the U.N. resolution on Iraq,” he stressed.

On the other hand, Lavrov said: “We’re preparing a response to a message to President Vladimir Putin from his U.S. counterpart Barack Obama.”

In this respect the meetings with the U.S. Secretary of State will be useful, the Russian minister said.

Syrian issue is to be discussed in the meeting.

Kerry will make a visit to Russia on May 7-8.

B.Q