A conference aimed at finding a peaceful solution to the three year conflict in Syria has begun in Geneva today. The Syrian Government and the main opposition are in attendance, along with international allies. UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon told delegates they faced a “formidable challenge”, but there was a chance to “make a new beginning”. However, no major breakthroughs are expected to happen in the immediate future, as the two sides are still unwilling to compromise on the situation of President Bashar al-Assad.
Direct talks will begin on Friday, and will be the first time that the Syrian Government and the opposition have met face-to-face since the start of the conflict, which has left thousands dead and millions more displaced from their homes. In addition, the Syrian Government has been accused of the execution of some 11,000 of its own people.
Iran, whose invitation to the summit was revoked at the last minute, is believed by some delegates to be worthy of being in attendance. The full story is available here.