Russia ready to coordinate steps to block Turkish-Syrian border

Russia is ready to coordinate practical steps to block the Turkish-Syrian border in cooperation with Damascus, Tass quoted Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov as saying on Friday after talks with Syrian Foreign Minister Walid Muallem.

Lavrov recalled that French President Francois Hollande earlier voiced the proposal to adopt specific measures to block the Turkish-Syrian border.

"We actively support that. We are open for coordination of practical steps, certainly, in interaction with the Syrian government," he said. "We are convinced that by blocking the border we will in many respects solve the tasks to eradicate terrorism on Syrian soil."

"We hope that initiative by President Hollande will be implemented within the framework of our joint work, including in the Group of Support for Syria," the minister said.

Lavrov pointed out that Russia has question about Ankara’s real plans, including those on counter-terrorist efforts.

Sources: MENA