'Syria ready to deal with terrorist threat in Middle East'

Moscow, Sep 12 (IANS/ITAR -TASS) Syria is ready to coordinate their anti-terrorist policy with the world community to deal with the terrorist threat in the Middle East, Russian foreign ministry said Thursday.

"The situation in Syria, where serious fighting is under way, remains tense," foreign ministry spokesperson Alexander Lukashevich told a press briefing, adding that it was "necessary to fight this evil in compliance with UN Security Council resolutions, respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria and Iraq".

He said it was important to continue the practice of local truces to thwart sallies by terrorists and extremists. "Representatives of the Syrian authorities have made several public remarks in support of the unanimously adopted UN Security Council resolution 2170 on fighting terrorist groups in Syria and Iraq."

Lukashevich also highlighted the activities of the Islamic State Sunni militant group in Syria. "Terrorists have launched a war of mines and roadside bombs, which is increasing civilian casualties," he said.

IS militants execute people en masse, engage in human trafficking and acquire property by force in territories under their control, the spokesperson added.

"It is clear that Islamic State militants in Syria are no different from their comrades in arms operating in Iraq. A well-motivated and tough terrorist group is operating on both sides of the border," the Russian diplomat said.

--IANS/ITAR-TASS

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