Statement by NSC Spokesperson Bernadette Meehan on National Security Advisor Susan E. Rice’s Meeting with UN Special Envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura

National Security Advisor Susan E. Rice met today with the United Nations’ Special Envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura.  Mr. de Mistura updated Ambassador Rice on his recent regional consultations related to seeking a resolution to the Syria conflict and expanded on his October 30 briefing to the UN Security Council.  Ambassador Rice emphasized the United States’ support for a political solution to Syria’s civil war.

Ambassador Rice underscored the United States’ commitment to increasing support for the moderate Syrian opposition, including through a train and equip program.  She thanked Mr. de Mistura for the renewed energy he has brought to international efforts to bring an end to the war in Syria and discussed measures that the United States and other partners could take to support his efforts.  Ambassador Rice also stressed the United States’ continued commitment to providing humanitarian assistance to those affected by the conflict.