Russia, Turkey disagree on separating terrorists from opposition in Syria — Cavusoglu

World November 02, 2016, 17:53

According to Cavusoglu, Ankara and Moscow, however, agree that non-military solution is the most appropriate for Syria

MOSCOW, November 2. /TASS/. Turkey and Russia have different views of the process of separating Syria’s moderate opposition from terrorist organizations, Turkish Foreign Minister, Mevlut Cavusoglu, told Rossiya 24 TV channel on Wednesday.

"We also demand separating supporters of the Jabhat al-Nusra (group, outlawed in Russia - TASS) from the opposition, because we cannot consider terrorists together with the moderate opposition," he said. "We have dissenting views on how, on what basis they should be separated. First of all, it is necessary to stop the bombing raids, ensure the ceasefire and end the hostilities. After that, it is necessary to provide a reasonable period of time. As long as the war is going on, as long as the regime continues its bombing raids, it will be very difficult to separate them."

According to Cavusoglu, Ankara and Moscow agree that "the political, non-military solution is the most appropriate for Syria.

"On the other hand, Ankara "does not believe that a political settlement involving the Assad regime is possible."

"If we have disagreements on Assad and other issues, we have set up special groups made up of diplomats, military experts and representatives of special services. All Syrian, regional and military issues are considered by these groups with the participation of both Turkey and Russia," the foreign minister said, adding that "dialogue between Russia and Turkey is very important for stability in the region."

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