Saudi Arabia has assured Russia that it supports a gradual process of negotiating local cease-fires and setting up "de-escalation zones" in Syria, Russia's foreign minister said Monday, a day after meeting with Saudi leaders. Russia and Iran, Saudi Arabia's main regional foe, back Syria's government, while Saudi Arabia supports Syrian rebels. Asked Monday whether Saudi leaders support the Astana process, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov told reporters: "Yes, I think Saudi Arabia is determined to solve the Syria crisis." Jordan has a vital interest in pacifying southern Syria. Safadi said Monday that Jordanian-Russian cooperation is important, especially in southern Syria.

Source: ABC News September 11, 2017 11:52 UTC