US Secretary of State John Kerry says there is a “real and present” opportunity for talks about the future of Syria to make progress this week in Geneva.
He was speaking just hours after at least 50 people were killed in blasts that targeted a Shia Muslim shrine south of Damascus.
The attack was claimed by Islamic State, and EU foreign policy chief Federiga Mogherini said the blasts were “clearly aimed” at disrupting the process in Geneva.
But speaking in Washington, Mr. Kerry urged all sides to embrace the opportunity to begin talks, and start the process of bringing Syria’s crisis to an end.
IN: “The people of….”
OUT: “…. serious negotiation yields”
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(ALT)
Representatives of the Syrian government and opposition groups are now in Geneva, although the opposition says the government must agree to key humanitarian demands before face-to-face talks can get underway.
Speaking in Washington, Mr Kerry said there is no military solution to the Syrian conflict.
IN: “I urge….”
OUT: “…real and present”
DUR: 30 seconds