Fwd: [GDAMS Partners] Re: (text may have got lost, here it is again) IPB SUPPORTS SYRIA PEACE TALKS, CALLS ON ALL SIDES TO PARTICIPATE
Annette Brownlie
IPB SUPPORTS SYRIA PEACE TALKS, CALLS ON ALL SIDES TO PARTICIPATE
Geneva, 9 January 2017. The final days of 2016 offered a glimmer of hope in the darkness of the Syrian conflict, with the new ceasefire deal brokered by Russia and Turkey. But 2017 has started badly, with the refusal by 10 rebel groups to join the peace talks in Astana because of what they describe as government violations. IPB believes the talks offer a vital opportunity which must not be lost. We urge that all parties to the conflict (including the Kurds), and all concerned external powers, be allowed to participate. The talks, expected to start on January 23 in the capital of Kazakhstan, will be mediated by Russia, Turkey and Iran, though Russian officials have said that other key players, including the USA, will be welcome. IPB believes that in the longer-term the process is best conducted under UN auspices, and in that context we commend the tireless efforts of Special Envoy Staffan di Mistura and his predecessors.
Meanwhile we applaud the courageous initiative taken by a range of civil society activists to organise a Civil March to Aleppo. While opinions may differ on the responsibility for the conflict and what the political outcome should be, it is right that voices be raised to demand an end to attacks on civilians. For a more detailed statement of IPB's position, please visit our website.
Colin ArcherSecretary-General
International Peace Bureau
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The International Peace Bureau is a global network dedicated to the vision of a World Without War. We are a Nobel Peace Laureate (1910), and 13 of our officers have also been recipients of the Prize. Our 300 member organisations in 70 countries, and individual members, form a global network bringing together expertise and campaigning experience in a common cause. IPB has UN Consultative Status and is the Secretariat for the NGO Committee for Disarmament (Geneva). Our main programme centres on Disarmament for Sustainable Development, of which the Global Campaign on Military Spending (GCOMS) is a key part. Recent world congress: Disarm! For a Climate of Peace - Berlin, Sept 30-Oct 3, 2016.
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