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Russian admits possibility of creating safety zone on Syrian-Iraqi border, envoy says

Russian Presidential Envoy on Syria Alexander Lavrentyev recalled Russia was aware of Turkey’s plans to establish a safety zone on the Syrian-Iraqi border and deploy Turkish troops there

NUR-SULTAN, April 26. /TASS/. Russia admits the possibility of creating a safety zone on the Syrian-Iraqi border provided that Damascus has control over it, Russian Special Presidential Envoy on Syria Alexander Lavrentyev said at a press conference on Friday.

"We are currently working in close coordination with our Turkish partners, particularly within the Astana process, in order to stabilize the situation in northern Syria. It concerns areas currently controlled by the Syrian opposition," he said, referring to Afrin, Azaz, Jarabulus and Idlib.

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Lavrentyev added Russia was aware of Turkey’s plans to establish a safety zone on the Syrian-Iraqi border and deploy Turkish troops there. "We believe that such a zone may be created but handing control of these areas over to the Syrian government forces is the best option," he pointed out, adding that it would help "control the border, ensure security and prevent provocations."

"We will stick to this position," the senior Russian diplomat emphasized.

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Syria Iraq Turkey

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