Russian and Turkish Foreign Ministers Sergey Lavrov and Hakan Fidan discussed the development of the situation in and around Syria during a telephone conversation today, January 23, the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

“During the conversation there was an exchange of views on the development of the situation in and around Syria. The necessity of unconditional respect for the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of the SAR was confirmed.

The heads of foreign ministries emphasized the importance of joining the efforts of all “external players” who can really contribute to a comprehensive settlement of the situation in Syria on the basis of ensuring the legitimate rights of all Syrian citizens regardless of their political views and ethno-religious affiliation,” the report says.

It is emphasized that a number of issues on the bilateral agenda were also touched upon.

The ministers agreed to remain in close contact on the Syrian issue and other topical regional and international dossiers, the ministry said.