Qatar and Russia agree on independent probe into Syria chemical attack

Following the horrifying chemical-weapons attack in Syria earlier this month, that killed at least 70 civilians, there has been much speculation about the exact consequences that were being aimed for.

Sergei Lavrov, Russia’s foreign minister, pointed out the possibility that the attack may have been orchestrated.  Qatar’s foreign minister, Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani, agreed with Lavrov yesterday upon backing an independent investigation into the chemical attack that took place in Khan Sheikhoun.

Qatar’s support for the launching of the investigation was discussed along with other regional concerns. According to the Gulf Times, maintaining Syria’s unity and easing the suffering of its people was one of the main issues in focus, though the meeting was also to strengthen ties in other fields, such as defence, sports and culture.

The Syrian government has been accused by the West for the planning and execution of the toxic gas attack, and they have responded by blaming rebel groups.

Amidst this pull and push, Al-Thani emphasised the two nations’ shared views on settling the Syrian crisis.

"Speaking of Syria, we agree on many issues ... We have certain differences on how to achieve these goals, but I hope that through constructive dialogue we will manage to work through the contradictions and we will achieve security and stability in Syria soon," he stated.

Photo Credit: Sputnik News