Kazakhstan Proposes to Conclude Tripartite Peace Talks on Syria in Astana
Kazakhstan has unexpectedly proposed to conclude the peace negotiation process on Syria between Russia, Turkey, and Iran, despite being a long-term host country, according to Reuters.
It is noted that diplomats from the three countries met this week for the 20th time in Kazakhstan's capital, Astana, to discuss the situation on the ground, a roadmap for restoring Turkey-Syria relations, Israeli attacks, and several other issues. Kazakhstan has been hosting these meetings since 2017.
One of the most significant steps announced in Astana was the partitioning of Syrian territories into de-escalation zones controlled by different countries. However, the day before, Kazakhstan's Deputy Foreign Minister Kanat Tumysh called for the conclusion of the tripartite talks, stating that their objectives have been achieved.
“The gradual exit of Syria from isolation in the region can be seen as a sign that the Astana process has fulfilled its purpose. Given Syria's return to the Arab family, we propose to officially declare the conclusion of the 20th meeting within the framework of the Astana process,” he said to reporters.