Syrian FM says 250 UN observers 'reasonable'

Syrian Foreign Minister Walid Mualem on Wednesday said a plan for 250 international observers was a "reasonable and logical" number to monitor a days-old ceasefire in the country, after the United Nations said it may need more troops and aircraft.

Syrian Foreign Minister Walid Mualem speaks at a news briefing in Beijing on Wednesday. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]

"We welcome the international observers especially those from impartial countries such as China, Russia, South Africa, Brazil, etc.," he said.

Mualem, speaking through a Chinese translator during a press briefing in Beijing, said he did not know why more observers would be needed, and said that the UN could use Syrian aircraft if needed.

He said the Syrian government will cooperate with Special Envoy Annan in his mediation efforts, observe and carry out the six-point proposal, live up to the commitments of a ceasefire and troop withdrawal and cooperate with the UN observation group.

However, he said the "armed terrorists", who made 70 movements in violation of the truce within one day, were inclined to break the truce.

"We respect the truce, but we will not allow armed terrorists to hurt civilians and we will take actions to protect them," he said.

Mualem expressed appreciation to China for its consistent, objective and impartial stance on, and its efforts in, seeking a political resolution to the Syrian issue.

"We support China and Russia's role. They have maintained balance in international issues," he concluded.