DAMASCUS (Sputnik) — The presence and actions of the Russian Aerospace Forces in Syria has contributed to more speedy process of reconciliation in the country, Syrian State Minister for National Reconciliation Affairs Ali Haidar said Saturday.
"Over six months since joining the fight against terrorism on the Syrian territory, Russia has accelerated the process of reconciliation in the country," Haidar stressed.
Russia has also prompted many armed opposition groups to accept the ceasefire regime, he noted.
"Most of all, this process is hampered by Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Qatar that through various channels continue to support the militants in Syria," the state minister explained.
According to the data provided by the Syrian politician, over 50 Syrian settlements, home to at least 1.5 million people, have already signed the agreements stipulating the ceasefire observance by now.
The Russian Aerospace Forces started counterterrorism operations in Syria in September 2015, at the invitation of Syrian President Bashar Assad. On March 15, Russia began a major withdrawal of its forces from Syria after accomplishing its objective, while leaving a small residual force.
