Syrian Opposition, Lavrov Unlikely to Discuss New Syria Constitution in Moscow

Russian proposals on a draft version of Syria’s new constitution are unlikely to be discussed during the meeting between Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and representatives of Syrian opposition factions in Moscow on Friday, a source in an opposition movement told Sputnik.

MOSCOW (Sputnik) — During the intra-Syrian consultations in Astana earlier this week, the Russian delegation handed over to the Syrian armed opposition proposals on a draft new constitution of the country. Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov said the proposals could be discussed in Moscow.

"No. The only issue on the agenda is forming a joint delegation of opposition," the source said when asked whether a constitutional change will be discussed.

Lavrov is going to meet with 25 representatives of opposition factions on Friday. Members of the National Coordination Body for Democratic Change, Cairo group, Moscow group, Hmeimim group, the Movement of the Pluralistic Society and PYD are among them, according to the source.

General Coordinator of Saudi-backed High Negotiations Committee (HNC) Riyad Hijab also was invited, but has not confirmed his participation yet, the source added.

During the previous rounds of Geneva talks, the HNC insisted on its exclusive right to represent the Syrian opposition and ruled out the possibility of joining efforts with other factions.

Next round of Geneva talks is expected on February 8.