The refusal of the United States to participate in the International Conference on the Return of Syrian Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons shows the double standard for Syria, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said in his welcoming speech to the conference participants. The text was read out on Wednesday by Russian President's Special Envoy for the Syrian Settlement Alexander Lavrentyev.
The head of the Russian Foreign Ministry noted that the refusal to participate in the humanitarian forum of "a well-known circle of countries headed by the United States" is not justified in any way, and also pointed to their attempts to prevent the event. The Minister reminded that the conference was held in accordance with UNSC resolution 2254. "We consider this approach of our opponents as another evidence of double standards in relation to Syria, which is trying to make a hostage of narrow-minded geopolitical interests," Lavrov noted.
"At the same time, it is not surprising that this position is taken by those states, which directly participated in fanning the 'Syrian fire', have provided and continue to provide support to anti-government forces, including terrorists. It is they who bear the main responsibility for the tragedy of millions of Syrian citizens forced to flee their homes," the head of the Russian diplomatic mission said.
Lavrov also said that the restoration of a peaceful way of life in Syria would facilitate the return of refugees; Russia intends to contribute in every possible way to the implementation of relevant efforts.
"I am sure that our joint efforts will give a new impetus to the restoration of a peaceful way of life in Syria," the message says. - "It is important that millions of Syrians will be able to return to their homes in the near future. We intend to contribute to this in every way possible".
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: Russian Foreign Ministry
Based on materials from TASS