Mogherini: Russia can play leading role in resolving Syrian crisis

EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini said that Russia can play a leading role in the resolution of the conflict in Syria.

"The role of Russia could be extremely important. We all agree with Russia that we need to invest a lot in the UN-led process. That is why the talks with Staffan de Mistura are very important in this respect," RIA Novosti cited her as saying.

"Russia can be a key player when it comes to putting pressure on or convincing the regime in Syria to participate in the political process, in the talks, to sit around the table. The role of Iran is also crucial," Mogherini added.

"If we want the political situation to move inside Syria and the political process to start immediately, we need to involve players that have an influence on the regime. That’s why both Russia and Iran are crucial," she said.

According to her, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and the Gulf countries should also be involved.