We "agreed to look for an agreement that will bring us closer based on a clear understanding of what’s written in the Annan plan that (all) sides in Syria need an incentive for a national dialogue."
"But it’s only up to the Syrians to make agreements on what the Syrian state will be like, who will hold (government) jobs and positions."
Putting a brave face on intractable differences, Lavrov hoped Geneva discussions would move closer to resolving Syria's conflict peacefully. "But I am not saying that we will agree on every dot."
Kofi Annan proposed unity government. Government and opposition members would be included. Elements seeking belligerent change would be excluded.
Russia and other major powers expressed support. Washington insists Assad must go. He told Iran's IRIB channel 4:
"We, in Syria, do not accept any model that is not Syrian and national, regardless of whether it was imposed by superpowers or proposed by friendly countries."
"No one knows how to resolve the problem in Syria as well as we do, as Syrians….so, any model that comes from abroad is unacceptable regardless of its content."
At the same time, he thanked Russia, China, and other countries for trying to resolve things peacefully to restore stability.
On June 30, America, Russia, China, Britain, France, Turkey, Iraq, Kuwait and Qatar met in Geneva. Moscow wanted Iran there. Washington rejected Tehran's participation.
Reports late Saturday said world powers struck a transitional government deal. What part Assad would play remains unclear.
Russia says Syrians must decide who'll lead them. The deal struck has no preconditions.
Ahead of word from Geneva, insurgent leaders rejected transitional government with Assad in it. Earlier they spurned peace initiatives. They take orders from Washington. ...................... M O R E: ... by Stephen Lendman
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Stephen Lendman lives in Chicago and can be reached at
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His new book is titled "How Wall Street Fleeces America: Privatized Banking, Government Collusion and Class War"
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Visit his blog site at sjlendman.blogspot.com and listen to cutting-edge discussions with distinguished guests on the Progressive Radio News Hour on the Progressive Radio Network Thursdays at 10AM US Central time and Saturdays and Sundays at noon. All programs are archived for easy listening.
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