MoU for Safe Zones in Syria

Introduction:
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for safe zones in Syria was signed by three countries - Russia, Iran, and Turkey. This agreement aimed to deescalate the conflict in Syria and create safe zones to protect civilians and facilitate humanitarian aid.

Explanation:
The MoU was signed on May 4, 2017, during the fourth round of the Astana talks held in the capital of Kazakhstan. The agreement was a result of negotiations between the three countries acting as guarantors for the peace process in Syria.

Key Points:
The following are the key points of the MoU:

1. Safe Zones: The agreement called for the establishment of safe zones in four regions of Syria. These zones included parts of Idlib province, parts of Latakia, Aleppo, and Hama provinces, parts of Homs province, parts of Eastern Ghouta, and parts of Daraa and Quneitra provinces.

2. Security and Monitoring: The three countries agreed to ensure the security of the safe zones and establish mechanisms for monitoring and verifying the cessation of hostilities within these areas. They also committed to creating conditions for the safe and voluntary return of displaced persons to their homes.

3. Humanitarian Aid: The MoU emphasized the importance of delivering humanitarian aid to the affected population in the safe zones. It called for the establishment of joint coordination centers to facilitate the delivery of aid and ensure its equitable distribution.

4. Conflict Deescalation: The agreement aimed to contribute to the deescalation of the conflict in Syria by reducing violence and protecting civilians. It called for the cessation of all military activities, including aerial bombardments and ground operations, within the safe zones.

5. Guarantor Countries: Russia, Iran, and Turkey acted as the guarantor countries for the implementation of the agreement. They committed to taking all necessary measures to ensure compliance with the terms of the MoU and to prevent any attempts to undermine the peace process.

Conclusion:
The signing of the MoU for safe zones in Syria by Russia, Iran, and Turkey was a significant step towards deescalating the conflict and protecting civilians in the war-torn country. The agreement aimed to establish secure areas where the cessation of hostilities could be observed, humanitarian aid could be delivered, and displaced persons could safely return to their homes. It demonstrated the commitment of these countries to finding a peaceful resolution to the Syrian conflict.