US Recognition of Syrian “Opposition Coalition” Violates Geneva Statement- Lavrov

MOSCOW, (ST)- The US  recognition of the “Syrian Opposition Coalition” violates the agreements stipulated in the Geneva statement which called for launching a comprehensive Syrian dialogue between the Syrian government and the opposition, stressed Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.

 In a press conference at the conclusion of his talks with his Slovak counterpart Miroslav Lajack in Moscow on Wednesday, Lavrov expressed surprise that the United States had recognized a newly formed Syrian “opposition coalition” as the representative of the Syrian people.

“By recognizing the coalition, it seems that the United States decided to place all bets on the military victory of the opposition,” Lavrov said.

“This contradicts the agreements set in the Geneva statement that proposes the start of an all-out Syrian dialogue,” he added.

He stressed that Moscow will ask Washington for clarification on its view regarding the situation and the future moves.

 “It is natural that we will talk to our American colleagues to know how they will act in light of this declaration, which is for Russia an unexpected turning point,” Lavrov said.

 However, Lavrov pointed out that during recent consultations in Geneva, the American side showed understanding for the need to prepare suitable environment for a comprehensive Syrian dialogue, with the participation of the government.

T. Fateh