Syrian enemies may discuss prisoner swaps
Updated: 2014-01-23 09:33
(Agencies)
|
|||||||||||
Kerry also spoke of "mutual" agreement among Syrians, but one that excluded Assad. "We see only one option - negotiating a transition government born by mutual consent," he said. "That means that Bashar al-Assad will not be part of that transition government."
Despite the differences, however, some participants believe common interests in reining in violence could rally the West, Russia and possibly even Iran behind some form of compromise.
A last-minute invitation from Ban to Iran was revoked after the Syrian opposition threatened to boycott the talks - a move that threatened to undermine months of US and Western efforts to cajole Jarba's National Coalition into taking part.
President Hassan Rouhani said from Tehran that Iran's exclusion made it unlikely the conference could succeed.
WAR RAGES IN SYRIA
During the speeches in Montreux, the war went on in Syria.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitoring group reported clashes and air strikes around the country. Around Damascus, government artillery hit villages and rebels clashed with the army in the neighbourhood of Jobar on the northeast fringe of the capital, it said.
The release of photographs apparently showing prisoners tortured and killed by the government was cited by Jarba and Western ministers. The Syrian government rejected the report as not objective and aimed at undermining negotiations.
In Damascus, where life limps on amid bombardments and checkpoints, weary residents cautiously hope for better.
"I really don't think much will come out of it, but the alternative is no talks at all, and that's not much better," said Ruba, a mother of two.
Related Stories
US anti-abortion rallies march for life 2014-01-22 17:46
UN chief : Syria talks face 'formidable' obstacles 2014-01-22 17:10
US, Russian leaders discuss peace talks on Syria 2014-01-22 13:13
Davos forum founder sees Syria, Iran in spotlight 2014-01-21 13:40
UN withdraws Iran invitation to Syria talks 2014-01-21 11:33
Today's Top News
Xi urges leading group to push reforms
Boeing delivers record number of planes to China
Li calls for cooperative global economic system
China to keep up with transgenics
Big rise in Chinese overseas
Police welcome microblog tip-offs
China OKs 12 more free trade zones
Man, 36, executed for rape, murder of sex slaves
Hot Topics
Lunar probe , China growth forecasts, Emission rules get tougher, China seen through 'colored lens', International board,
Editor's Picks
Find provides grave paws for thought |
Smog descends on the 'two sessions' agendas |
Entertainment: Console ban? |
Majoring in anti-money laundering |
Traditional skiing lives on as fur flies |
Shangri-la assets lost forever after town blaze |