Russia and Turkey agreed to 'reduce tensions' in Idlib

(Patria) – Russia and Turkey, opposing sides in the Syrian war, have agreed to reduce tensions in the Syrian province of Idlib despite the continuation of military action, the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on Saturday.

Russia, which supports the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, and Turkey, which supports opposition – rebel forces, do not intend to give up on Idlib – a province in northwestern Syria bordering Turkey, which is the last stronghold of the opposition.

However, after the deaths of 33 Turkish soldiers in Russian bombing, the sides found themselves at the negotiating table in Ankara, where it was agreed that such situations should be avoided.

The Russian Ministry stated that 'concrete steps to achieve lasting stability in the Idlib de-escalation zone' will be taken.

- Both sides confirmed that the goal is to reduce tensions on the ground while fighting terrorism, Reuters reports.