Press release

PM video conference with President Obama, Chancellor Merkel and President Hollande

The Prime Minister held a video teleconference on Syria today (February 23) with President Obama, Chancellor Merkel and President Hollande.

No10

A Downing St spokesperson said:

The Prime Minister held a video teleconference on Syria earlier today with President Obama, Chancellor Merkel and President Hollande.

They welcomed today’s Cessation of Hostilities agreement, which could be an important step towards peace in Syria. They noted the agreement would only succeed if there was a change of behaviour by the Syrian regime and its backers, with Russia in particular ending its attacks on Syrian civilians and moderate opposition groups. They also agreed on the vital importance of the Syrian regime allowing humanitarian access.

They agreed a political solution and transition away from Assad was the only way to end the suffering of the Syrian people, and that a credible political transition process therefore had to get under way as soon as possible.

They also agreed on the importance of the Global Coalition fight against Daesh continuing at pace, to sustain momentum in recovering ground.

On migration, they agreed they were firmly committed to the NATO migration mission, noting the importance of Greece and Turkey working together and with the international community to ensure the mission’s success.

Find out more about how the UK has been supporting those affected by the Syrian crisis.

Published 23 February 2016