Kingdom voices concern over Russia’s strikes in Syria

Saudi Gazette report SOCHI — Minister of Foreign Affairs Adel Al-Jubeir said that the talks between Deputy Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman, second deputy premier and minister of defense, and Russian President Vladimir Putin were constructive, positive, and candid. “The talks covered several topics pertaining to boosting bilateral relations and enhancing cooperation in military field as well as in fighting terrorism, besides having political coordination on regional issues, especially the situations in Yemen and Syria,” he said while addressing a press conference with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Sunday in the Russian Black Sea resort of Sochi. During the meeting, Al-Jubeir said, the Kingdom’s position was explained vis-à-vis Russia’s military strikes in Syria. “The Kingdom voiced its concern over these strikes that are being carried out in coalition with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, Iran and Hezbollah although it was claimed that Russian strikes are aimed at combatting  Daesh (the so called IS) terrorists.” "We believe that the best way to resolve the crisis is a political solution based on the Geneva Conference 1 that calls for formation of a transitional government, including representatives of the regime and the opposition parties, until up to the elections and framing of a new constitution,” he said, adding that Assad shall not have any role in any future government in Syria. Al-Jubeir also promised continued support to the moderate opposition. Lavrov said that Putin and Prince Muhammad Bin Salman agreed to intensify consultations and exchange of visits among officials of both the countries to further boost bilateral ties in areas of mutual interest.