De Mistura: We seek to find “an area of commonality” among participants in intra-Syrian talks

Geneva, SANA-UN special envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura said on Thursday that he seeks to find “an area of commonality” among participants in the intra-Syrian talks, adding that there is a joint understanding and an agreement on principles regarding the unity of Syrian territories and the rights of the Syrian people.

“Since the beginning, we see that distance between the two sides is large, but we seek to find an area of commonality as in any other negotiations, and I believe we began to see what stances of both sides are,” de Mistura said at a press conference following his meeting with “al-Riyadh opposition” delegation.

He added “We have two other meetings tomorrow and there is a document about the principles.”

As for the possibility of having peace-keeping forces to observe the cessation of hostilities, de Mistura said “talking about this issue is very premature and the participants in dialogue will discuss this issue.”

“There is a gradual progress in the humanitarian file,” de Mistura said, considering that “there is no excuse for not delivering the humanitarian aid convoys in light of the cessation of hostilities agreement.”

On the abducted people by the terrorist organizations, de Mistura said “No one knows the numbers, but sure there are large numbers of them as in eastern Ghouta.”

As for considering Moscow and Cairo groups as a third delegation of opposition, de Mistura said “the talks depend on techniques of rapprochement between the two sides and I have no objection to consult any side, not only the advisors.”

Mazen Eyon

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