Iran calls for talks between Syria government, opposition

2012-08-09 12

Iran calls for talks to end the crisis in Syria.

As rebels battle government forces in the fight for control of the country, Iran hosts a conference to help end the 16 month old conflict.

More than 25 nations are called to the table in Iran -- none of them supporting the Syrian opposition.

Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi says Syria must find its own path.

(SOUNDBITE) (Farsi) IRANIAN FOREIGN MINISTER, ALI AKBAR SALEHI, SAYING:

"All the countries that have a role in the crisis in Syria must accept the reality that the political situation in Syria is such that -- the only way to reach a solution is through internal political talks."

The Syrian government has said it is ready for dialogue --but opposition forces say there can be no talks if President Bashar al Assad remains in power.