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Conflict in Syria

Russia in close contact with Turkey to thwart any escalation in Syria — envoy

Alexander Lavrentyev also said hopefully Turkey and Syria could work toward a gradual rapprochement

ASTANA, November 23. /TASS/. Russia has been in close contact with Turkey to prevent any further escalation in Syria, Russian Special Presidential Envoy for Syria Alexander Lavrentyev said at a news conference on Wednesday.

Speaking after the 19th meeting of the Astana format talks on Syria, he said, "We have been in quite close contact with Turkey, primarily through Defense Ministry channels, so that we can prevent tensions from escalating further in general."

Lavrentyev also said hopefully Turkey and Syria could work toward a gradual rapprochement. "That is just vital, because those two countries are neighbors and they should be friends," he insisted.

"I think the signs and signals out there that Turkey and Syria are ready to somewhat meet each other halfway are steps in the right direction that could help avoid any deadly incidents involving civilians," the Russian diplomat added.

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Foreign policy Syrian conflict

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