Russia is preparing the evacuation of its citizens in Syria because of the “deteriorating security situation”, said Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov on Thursday. The same day, Pakistani Foreign Office spokesman Moazzam Ahmed Khan said Pakistan has withdrawn its diplomatic staff from Syria, while urging all parties to settle the conflict diplomatically.

Syrian deteriorating security situation has resulted in Russia's citizen withdrawal

In related news, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hong Lei said on Thursday that Beijing stands ready to exchange information with all relevant parties in Syria. He noted that a political transition led by the Syrian people should be launched and pushed forward as soon as possible in order to achieve a just, peaceful and appropriate resolution. Hong called on the international community to play a positive and constructive role in helping relevant parties work towards the goals.