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.
A journalist wearing a protective face mask films the arrival of the bus carrying a delegation taking part in a meeting of Syria Constitutional Committee at the United Nations (UN) Office in Geneva on August 24, 2020. - Members of Syria's Constitutional Committee will be meeting for the first time since last November, following delays brought on by the coronavirus crisis. (Photo by Fabrice COFFRINI / AFP) (Photo by FABRICE COFFRINI/AFP via Getty Images)
A journalist wearing a protective face mask films the arrival of the bus carrying a delegation taking part in a meeting of Syria Constitutional Committee at the United Nations offices in Geneva on Aug. 24, 2020. - FABRICE COFFRINI/AFP via Getty Images
Al Monitor: The Pulse of the Middle East
Al-Monitor Staff

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.

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