By Michael Hernandez

WASHINGTON

The Obama administration’s Syrian envoy discussed the planned train and equip mission for Syrian rebels during recent meetings in Istanbul, Central Command said Wednesday.

Special Envoy for Syria Daniel Rubinstein met with Syrian opposition leaders alongside Army Maj. Gen. Michael K. Nagata, Combined Joint Interagency Task Force - Syria Director, Jan. 12-13.

Central Command said the meetings “provided an important opportunity” to discuss the train and equip mission.

“All participants recognized the need for continued focus on this important program and the need for further discussions,” the command said in a statement.

Turkey is reportedly preparing to sign a memorandum of understanding with the United States later this month to allow for a train and equip mission for Syrian opposition forces in the country. Jordan and Saudi Arabia are expected to host similar programs.