AMN /
The opening of UN-backed peace talks on Syria may be delayed due to demands from an opposition bloc supported by Saudi Arabia. The United Nations plans to begin peace negotiations in Geneva today. The conference intends to bring together representatives of the Syrian government and opposition groups.
Russia and Saudi Arabia have led an effort to choose representatives from the opposition forces. They are made up of more than 100 armed groups and regional alliances. The opposition has been battling against government forces and Islamic State militants.
A mainly secular bloc backed by Russia is already in Switzerland and is preparing for talks with the Syrian government. But opposition groups supported by Saudi Arabia were still holding discussions yesterday in Riyadh.