Syria constitutional talks 'on hold' after three test positive for coronavirus
Three of the 45 delegates participating in the so-called Syrian Constitutional Committee in Geneva tested positive for the virus.
The UN-led talks aimed at drafting a new constitution for Syria are “on hold” after three out of 45 participants tested positive for the novel coronavirus, the office of UN special envoy for Syria Geir Pederson said Monday.
“Immediate measures have been taken consistent with protocols to mitigate any risks, and tracing of anyone who may have been in close contact with affected persons is underway,” a statement from Pederson’s office said.
“Following a constructive first meeting, the Third Session of the Constitutional Committee is currently on hold,” the UN mediator’s office said, adding that another announcement would follow.
The statement did not identify which members had contracted the virus, but said delegates were tested before and after arriving in Geneva. During their first meeting at the Palais des Nations, which houses the United Nations in the Swiss city, mask-wearing and strict social distancing measures were in place, the special envoy’s office said.
