Geneva "should be the first step in a process that will lead to a political solution" to the bloody conflict, EU foreign ministers said in a statement.
"The EU reiterates that the only solution to the conflict is a genuine political transition," they said, recalling that Geneva I in 2012 called for the formation of a new government but did not mention
Hereditary President-for-Life Bashir Pencilneckal-Assad
Scourge of Qusayr...
by name.
Assad's future is a key issue in the conflict and the president has told Agence La Belle France Presse in an exclusive interview he would likely seek a new term and that he would not share power with the opposition.
"I see no reason why I shouldn't stand," Assad said of presidential elections in June. "In short, we can say that the chances for my candidacy are significant."
Assad also insisted the peace talks beginning in Switzerland
...home of the Helvetians, famous for cheese, watches, yodeling, and William Tell...
from Wednesday should focus on "the war against terrorism," dismissing the rebels as groups backed by outside powers.