"[The sides] reiterated their opposition to the illegal seizure and transfer of oil revenues that should belong to Syria", the statement said.
"Reaffirmed their determination to stand against separatist agendas in the east of the Euphrates aimed at undermining the unity of Syria as well as threatening the national security of neighbouring countries. Expressed grave concern, in this regard, with increasing hostilities and all forms of oppression by the separatist groups against civilians in the east of Euphrates," it added.
Foreign Troops in Syria
"A large number of existing difficulties and problems are not only in southern Syria but also in the Euphrates, everything can be solved by the withdrawal of the American forces from these territories. Frankly speaking, even the dialogue that takes place between the so-called Syrian Democratic Forces and Damascus would have gone much faster and more fruitfully", Lavrentyev said at a press conference following the Astana format meeting.
"We oppose any illegal armed military presence. This is a clear violation of international law, and this should not continue. Our Turkish partners emphasise that they stand for the territorial integrity of Syria, for the unity of Syria, for its independence. They say that they are temporarily and will leave as soon as the opportunity allows them to do it", he said.