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Conflict in Syria

Swiss Foreign Ministry calls for Syrian government participation to solve conflict

Switzerland’s top diplomat expressed support for UN efforts aimed at launching among the parties to the Syrian conflict

Switzerland’s Foreign Minister Didier Burkhalter AP Photo/Kevin Hagen

Switzerland’s Foreign Minister Didier Burkhalter

© AP Photo/Kevin Hagen

UNITED NATIONS, October 1. /TASS/. The conflict in Syria should be resolved with the participation of the Syrian government, Switzerland’s Foreign Minister Didier Burkhalter said on Wednesday speaking at the 70th session of the UN General Assembly.

"The only path that will lead to peace is the path of a broad dialogue with the participation of the Syrian government aimed at identifying the parameters of the controlled transition period," he said. It is possible to achieve a long-term solution only if "all parties are sincerely working for peace." "All regional and international players share equal responsibility with regard to stabilization in Syria: they must sit down at the table and talk [with each other]," the minister said urging to abandon "maximalist positions" and to "seek compromise."

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Burkhalter noted that it was necessary to "quickly form an international contact group" that will be responsible for the search of a "political solution" in Syria.

Switzerland’s top diplomat expressed support for UN efforts aimed at launching among the parties to the Syrian conflict. "Syria needs our help," he noted. "It is necessary to start national dialogue to prepare for the completion of the deadly war." However, the Islamic State terrorist group "cannot be a party to a political solution," the minister added.

"A broad dialogue and power-sharing activities are vital not only for Syria, they are also the key elements for stabilization in Iraq and resolution of conflicts in Yemen and Libya," Burkhalter noted. A key role in the fight against terrorism is assigned to the United Nations, he said, adding that Bern was concerned about "the apparent absence of coordination between various military actions in Syria." Burkhalter urged the UN Security Council "to assume responsibility in overseeing the efforts to counter terrorism and restore peace and security in Syria."

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