Moscow Insists That UNSC Resolution on Intra-Syrian Talks Be Fully Observed

The Russian Foreign Ministry stresses the necessity of observing the UN Security Council Resolution n the formation of an inclusive delegation of the Syrian opposition.

MOSCOW – Moscow insists on the full compliance of the UN Security Council resolution on forming an inclusive delegation of Syrian opposition during talks with representatives of the Syrian authorities in Geneva scheduled for January 25, the Russian Foreign Ministry said Thursday according to the Russian Sputnik.

“A detailed exchange of opinion occurred on issues concerning the organization of intra-Syrian negotiations that should begin in Geneva on January 25. The Russian side focused on the necessity of observing the contents of the Vienna documents and UN Security Council Resolution 2254 on the formation of an inclusive delegation of the Syrian opposition, which would include all of the influential forces committed to a political settlement to the crisis,” the Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

 The statement came after Wednesday’s Russia-US-UN consultations on Syria held in Geneva. The Russian Foreign Ministry was represented by Deputy Foreign Minister Gennady Gatilov.

At the close of the talks, Gatilov had stressed that terrorist organizations, such as Jaysh al-Islam, must not be included in the peace talks.

A single list of terrorist groups taking part in the Syrian conflict must also be agreed upon shortly, the ministry added. Wednesday’s meeting also discussed possible humanitarian measures aimed at relieving the situation faced by Syria’s civilian population, according to the statement.