Russia: No precondition on Assad

MOSCOW/ANKARA

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Sunday argued that "Assad's departure could not be a prerequisite for the solution of the Syrian crisis."

Speaking at a press conference in Ukraine, Sergey Lavrov indicated that "our partners look at Assad's leaving office as a crucial prerequisite. However, such a condition was not placed on the Geneva agreement."

Touching on Assad's recent proposals for solution of the Syrian crisis, Lavrov underlined that Assad had said he was ready for dialogue with the opposition.

Most likely, a dialogue with the opposition will not take place, Lavrov noted.

"Certain circles believe that such proposals were not serious enough. In any case, these are proposals," Lavrov also said.