By Joseph Varghese/Staff Reporter


Without finding a right solution to  the Syrian crisis, the relationship between Russia and the Arab World cannot be improved, opined a Russian official yesterday.
Speaking at the ‘The Arab World and Russia: Current Transformations of an Enduring Relationship’ Andrey Kortunov, director general of the Russian International Affairs Council said that the Syrian crisis was  a disaster not only for the  Syrian people but for the whole world.
Kortunov explained: “The world is witnessing what is happening in Syria. The solution should be based on Geneva Talks and the talks that are on hold should continue. There should be regular and continuous efforts to find solutions for the Syrian crisis.”
He also said that independent centres must develop a road map for the Syrian problem. “ We are not favouring any side and we have an independent view on the whole issue,” he added.
The official pointed out that Russia and the Arab world are neighbours and there are so many things in common between them. He pointed out “The number of Arabs migrating to Russia is on the increase. Russia is taking a creative role in many parts of the Middle East. Though Russia is not as powerful as in the old times, Russia is still in the Security Council and can use the veto power for good reasons.”
Karim Mroue, a Lebanese thinker and former deputy secretary general of the Lebanese Communist Party pointed out that Russia must play a more constructive role in the Arab world.
He said: “The Arab world must put pressure on Russia to play a more constructive role in the region. Russian influence  will improve in the Arab world with reconciliation in Syria.”
Mroue also stated that things have changed very dramatically over the last two decades. “Economic might plays a major role in the modern world. Then, comes political and military power. The Arab world should have very good relations with Russia which has a history of very long lasting relationship with the Arab countries.”