USA: Lavrov and Kerry discuss Syrian conflict ahead of UNGA

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov met with US Secretary of State John Kerry at the New York Palace Hotel in New York City, Sunday, to discuss the ongoing conflict in Syria ahead of the 70th United Nations General Assembly. "This is the beginning of a genuine effort to see if there is a way to deconflict but also to find a way forward that will be affective in keeping a united, secular Syria that can be at peace and stable again without foreign troops present," Kerry stated ahead of the meeting. Whilst Syria is expected to dominate the discussion, both diplomats are also expected to discuss the conflict in eastern Ukraine. Following the meeting the Russian foreign minister is set to give an address at the UN Sustainable Development Summit 2015.