Bob Carr (NSW, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Foreign Affairs) Share this | Hansard source

Yesterday I argued that Russia is the key to facilitating political transition in Syria. Russia has a relationship with the Assad regime. It has of course so far resisted UN Security Council measures. However, this places a particular onus on Moscow to use its influence to persuade Assad to move aside and usher in an inclusive political transition. Russia has an opportunity to demonstrate that it is a global power prepared to show leadership and help resolve this crisis.

The Arab League continues to demonstrate strong leadership, having first proposed a peace plan earlier this year. The Gulf Cooperation Council assisted a transition in Yemen. Australia is willing to support any constructive international efforts to resolve the crisis in Syria. Any such effort should, however, support the UN Security Council's primary responsibility to take collective action. (Time expired)