The opposition said negotiators of Assad regime had been pushed by its Russian allies to address the issue of political transition - which opposition says must involve Assad handing over power.
Yahya Kodmani, head of the opposition delegation, told reporters that he and colleagues had made strong and clear points to Gatilov, and Russia would need time to respond.
"We want them to be neutral and not enemies to Syria," Kodmani said. "We want them to pressure and sponsor the political transition process. We want them to work with us on stopping terrorism in Syria."
https://orient-news.net/news_images/17_3/1488448486.jpg'>(Opposition delegation during meeting with Russian officials. March. 1, 2017 - Photo: HNC)
A source close to Assad regime delegation said there was agreement that tackling "terrorism," according to Reuters.
Opposition said that terrorism cannot be added to the agenda of the UN-sponsored peace talks in Geneva, as sought by Assad regime. "We will not deal with it, and if (UN mediator Staffan de Mistura) adds it in any time we will not deal with it or discuss it," Kodmani told reporters.
The talks between Assad regime and opposition are governed by UN Security Council resolution 2254, which sets out a political transition process including plans for a new constitution, UN-supervised elections and transparent and accountable governance.
Kodmani said there was no mention of terrorism in Resolution 2254, and the talks should start with political transition because it is the main point.
Staffan de Mistura is due for another round of meetings Thursday marking a week of bilateral talks with the Assad regime delegation and opposition groups.
Nasir al-Hariri said overnight Wednesday that the "envoy is really keen to start a political process on the basis of a clear agenda."
He said the talks would likely culminate in a closing ceremony Friday and the parties may be back in Geneva for further discussions in a few weeks.
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