To ask Her Majesty's Government what is their assessment of the prospects for further ceasefires in Syria; and whether they consider local ceasefires to be as important as wider UN initiatives.
Answered on
21 December 2017
We welcome any initiative that contributes to a reduction of violence in Syria and creates the conditions for a sustainable political settlement. Local agreements can contribute to this goal, but the goal must remain a full nationwide cessation of hostilities. We are disappointed that in spite of announcements of de-escalation, violence continues, particularly in Eastern Ghouta, and the regime continues to obstruct humanitarian access. We are clear that the UN-led Geneva process between the Syrian parties remains the forum for reaching a lasting solution to the conflict.