The second stage of the Russian-Turkish talks on Idlib ended in Moscow Feb. 18 with no agreement between the parties. The Russian delegation included presidential envoy for Syria Alexander Lavrentiev, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin and representatives of the Defense Ministry, whereas Deputy Foreign Minister Sedat Onal headed the Turkish delegation.
“A detailed discussion of the situation ‘on the ground’ in Syria continued, with an emphasis on the Idlib de-escalation zone," the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement. "Both sides noted their adherence to the existing agreements that envisage measures to reduce tensions, ease the humanitarian situation and continue the fight against terrorism.”
The negotiating parties also stressed “the importance of promoting the political process of resolving the Syria crisis led and implemented by the Syrians themselves in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 2254,” according to the statement.
According to Turkish presidential spokesman Ibrahim Kalin, Ankara is not satisfied with the outcome of negotiations.
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