During the conversation, the two leaders gave particular attention to discussing the dramatic situation unfolding in Syria. Both sides spoke out in favour of the crisis being ended as quickly as possible by the Syrians themselves, via exclusively peaceful means, without any external interference.
Dmitry Medvedev and Mahmoud Ahmadinejad emphasised the need to end the violence and launch constructive dialogue between government authorities and the opposition without preconditions. At the same time, both presidents noted the importance of continuing consistent political and socio-economic reforms in Syria in a calm setting and in the interest of all Syrians.
The heads of state agreed that the key challenge today, including within the framework of international organisations – first and foremost the UN – is to prevent civil war, which could destabilise the entire region. Thus, it is important to mobilise everyone interested in ending the bloodshed and confrontations, to re-establish peace and stability in Syria.