Davutoglu receives Syrian general Tlass

Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu yesterday received Syrian general Manaf Tlass at the Foreign Ministry residence in Ankara. Following the meeting, Davutoglu and Tlass, who defected from Syrian army and joined the opponents, attended a fast-breaking dinner (iftar). During the dinner, which was also attended by National Intelligence Agency (MIT) Undersecretary Hakan Fidan, Davutoglu and Tlass exchanged opinions about recent developments and a possible civil war in Syria in detail. Tlass, a childhood friend of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, also informed Davutoglu on his contacts following his departure from Syria. Reportedly, steps to be taken to ensure more international support for Syria and prevent a civil war in the country were also among issues which were discussed.