United Nations: Describing the nearly three-week Syrian truce as a “much-needed positive development”, India has said it is “encouraging” that the peace talks in the Kazakh capital aimed at ending the brutal war are committed to Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Lal was referring to the Syrian peace talks scheduled for 23 January that have been organised by Turkey, Russia and Iran. UN deputy spokesman Farhan Haq told reporters yesterday that UN Special Envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura has received an invitation to attend the peace talks. Lal added that “meaningful involvement” of the UN is also essential in the Syrian peace process. The Indian diplomat, however, voiced concern over the “fragile” situation in the Middle East region, saying peace and reconciliation continue to be elusive.

Source: Mint January 18, 2017 07:58 UTC