Le Drian Says Hopes For 'Small Group' On Syria To Engage In Dialogue With Russia, Turkey

PARIS (Pakistan Point News / Sputnik - 30th August, 2018) French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian expressed hope on Wednesday in his address to French ambassadors that the so-called small group on Syria would serve as a platform for a wider dialogue on the issue, including with Russia and Turkey.

The "small group" on Syria comprises France, Germany, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, the United States and the United Kingdom.

"In political terms we have consolidated with the United States a common vision within the framework of the so-called small group ... We want this platform to serve as a basis for a deeper dialogue, including with Russia and Turkey," Le Drian stated.

He added that confidence building measures should be taken and a constitutional reform be carried out in Syria in order to guarantee a neutral environment and prepare inclusive elections in the country.

Syria has been devastated by years of violent civil war which prompted millions of people to flee hostilities from the areas where they lived to other locations in Syria and outside the country. The local authorities are currently engaged in rebuilding the country as thousands of Syrian refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) are returning to their homes.