Astana format to be useful for Syria at this stage, Russia ready to work — Lavrov
The foreign minister expressed confidence that "the new Syrian authorities will be able to determine in what concrete form, in what forms the Astana format can support the processes that have now begun in Syria"
MOSCOW, December 26. /TASS/. The Astana format can serve a purpose for Syria at this stage, Russia is ready to work, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said in an interview with Russian and foreign media.
"The position of both Turkey, Iran and Russia is that the Astana format can play a useful role at the current stage, especially since Arab states - Lebanon, Iraq and Jordan - have traditionally participated in its work as observers. The Persian Gulf monarchies are also showing interest," he said.
"That is why we have indicated our willingness to help, and the Turks and Iranians have done the same. The Arab countries, which are now in contact with the new authorities in Damascus, are aware of our capabilities," the top diplomat added.
At the same time, Lavrov expressed confidence that "the new Syrian authorities will be able to determine in what concrete form, in what forms the Astana format can support the processes that have now begun in Syria".