Syria Should Not Become a Base for Terrorists: Blinken

The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has stated that it is necessary to support humanitarian assistance to Syria, as well as to ensure that the country does not become a stronghold for terrorists.

In a written statement by State Department spokesman Matthew Miller, it was noted that Blinken emphasized the need for humanitarian assistance during a conversation with UAE Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan and that Syria should not turn into a base for terrorists. He also mentioned the necessity of 'eliminating chemical weapons stockpiles' in the country.

According to Miller, Blinken expressed similar views in phone conversations with Qatar's Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani and Jordan's Foreign Minister Ayman Hussein Abdullah Al-Safadi. He also pointed out that all groups of the Syrian armed opposition should have the opportunity to participate in the political process.