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                NATO Chief Says Cease-Fire Key to Peace in Syria

   by Chris Hannas

   NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said Thursday the nearly two-month-old
   cease-fire in Syria is "under strain," but still represents the best
   chance at a peaceful solution to the country's crisis.

   The cessation of hostilities between pro-government forces and
   opposition fighters went into effect at the end of February, and has
   been widely credited with sharply reducing fighting in Syria. But both
   sides have reported numerous violations, including a rise in fighting
   the past few weeks.

   Stoltenberg spoke at a joint press conference with Turkish Foreign
   Affairs Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu in Ankara.

   ''

   Russia's military presence
   He noted that despite Russia's announcement in March that it was
   partially withdrawing its military forces from Syria, it "maintains a
   considerable military presence" in support of Syrian President Bashar
   al-Assad's government.

   Stoltenberg also welcomed Turkey's participation in international
   efforts to defeat the Islamic State militant group, including allowing
   its Incirlik Airbase to be used by the U.S.-led coalition conducting
   airstrikes against the militants. Turkey's warplanes have been taking
   part in the airstrikes in Turkey, but not Iraq.

   ''
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   [1]http://www.voanews.com/content/nato-chief-says-cease-fire-key-to-pea
   ce-in-syria/3295273.html

References

   1. http://www.voanews.com/content/nato-chief-says-cease-fire-key-to-peace-in-syria/3295273.html