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Syria talks should be result-oriented

There is a ray of hope for the Syrians as contending parties get back to talks on Friday in Geneva. Finding a political solution to the war-ravaged country's issues is a must, if its territorial integrity is to be preserved. The good point is that the United Nations-sponsored peace talks will be in session for six consecutive months, and it is widely hoped that feuding sides might overcome obstacles to reach an amicable solution.

The Syrian opposition seems to have ironed out its internal differences as they met in Riyadh few weeks back under the aegis of Saudi Arabia. The opposition and the regime in Damascus should do away with their list of 'ifs' and 'buts' and get down to meaningful talks in Switzerland. They should see these talks as an opportunity in disaster. The fact that Russia has also hinted at change of guard in Damascus is a good omen to start with.

The ruling Baath Party has to keep in mind that no progress can be made without transition of power at the helm of affairs. President Bashar Al Assad will have to make room for the change, and it is high time if that is attained in a peaceful and constructive manner.

The world body's special envoy on Syria Staffan de Mistura should concentrate on brokering an instant ceasefire and, at the same time, broaden the scope of onslaught against Daesh. Issues of governance, a constitutional review and future elections have already been listed out on the agenda.

This is where the opposition, the government in Syria and international interlocutors should be on the same page to exterminate the lingering threat of Daesh, and lead Syria towards stability.