Zarif urges parties’ seriousness in Syrian talks

Upon arrival in Munich on Thursday, he told the reporters that western and regional states should reach a rational solution to end the Syrian crisis.

Zarif who is in the German city, to attend the Munich Meeting on Syria as well as Munich Security Conference, added, ‘We also believe that settlement of the Syrian crisis has been delayed due to certain wrong policies and irrational and illegal preconditions.’

Noting that a lot of time has been wasted, the minister added that those outside Syria are duty-bound to facilitate the process of peace not setting conditions and preconditions for the public.

He further noted that the earlier round of Syrian peace talks was suspended due to the obstacles created in the way of the negotiations.

‘Currently, we are at a very significant juncture and the talks must be pursued seriously,’ he said.

Stressing the need for distinguishing terrorists from the opponents to follow up the talks, Zarif said, ‘Prior to Munich Meeting tonight, we will hold talks with Russian and Chinese foreign ministers and UN special envoy for Syria.’

Zarif also said that he will discuss implementation of Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) with members of 5+1 Group on the sidelines of Munich Meeting slated for February 12-13.

Munich Meeting is to be attended by foreign ministers of 15 countries and representatives of the regional and international institutes.

Deputy foreign minister for Arab-African affairs is accompanying Zarif during his Munich trip.