Syrian president ready to discuss 'everything' with opposition
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 9 January 2017 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Syrian president ready to discuss 'everything' with opposition, 9 January 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5975a40c26.html [accessed 17 September 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
January 09, 2017
Syrian President Bashar al-Assad downplayed the significance of Saudi- and Western-backed opposition forces in Syria – saying it was important for what he called "real" opposition groups participate. (file photo)
Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has said his government is ready to negotiate on "everything" if proposed peace talks with the Syrian opposition go ahead.
Assad, in an interview with French journalists published by the Syrian SANA news agency on January 9, said his government's delegation for the proposed talks is ready to set out as soon as a date is determined.
Russia, Iran, and Turkey have proposed holding peace talks in Kazakhstan's capital, Astana, and Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu has said the talks could begin on January 23.
Although Syrian opposition groups are discussing the possibility of the Astana talks, they have not formally announced whether they will participate.
In his January 9 interview, Assad downplayed the significance of Saudi- and Western-backed opposition forces in Syria – saying it was important for what he called "real" opposition groups participate.
"When I say 'real,' I mean with grassroots in Syria – not a Saudi or French or British one," Assad said. "It should be Syrian opposition to discuss Syrian issues."
Assad also refused to rule out running for the Syrian presidency again in the future, saying that depended on "the will of the Syrian people."
Based on reporting by TASS and Reuters
Link to original story on RFE/RL website