Kerry: Syrian Conflict Top Priority of US Foreign Policy in 2016 – Kerry

The United States considers Syrian conflict, which has stemmed a refugee crisis and a wave of violent extremism, its main foreign policy priority, Kerry said.

WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — Kerry stated in remarks on the Obama administration’s foreign policy agenda for 2016 that the Syrian crisis is the top US priority.

"A top priority is the conflict in Syria, to deal with a refugee crisis…and violent extremism to which it has contributed."

The United States looks to enhance cooperation with Russia in the campaign against Daesh terrorist group, Kerry added.

"The Coalition is stepping up the pressure [on Daesh] even further," Kerry stated. "We are opening the aperture for further cooperation with others in the region, including Russia."

The US-led coalition against Daesh has been launching airstrikes against the terror group targets in Iraq and Syria since 2014. In September 2015, Russia launched its own precision airstrikes against Daesh in Syria at the request of Syrian President Bashar Assad.

Washington will strengthen defense capabilities of Jordan and Lebanon in the wake of an enhanced campaign against Daesh, the US Secretary of State said.

"We are doing more to strengthen the defense capabilities of Jordan, Lebanon, and other friend in the region."