Ms Gráinne O'Hara:

We do not have a direct role in the sense that the UNHCR is not a participant as in the Astana talks, which have just come to a conclusion. There is intended to be another round of talks, hopefully, in Geneva in early February under the direct auspices of the UN. I should distinguish between the two. The Astana talks came following an initiative of Turkey, Russia and Iran. The next round of talks in Geneva is expected to be under the direct auspices of Mr. de Mistura, the special representative of the UN Secretary General.

UNHCR was not present at the table for those talks, but we made a contribution to that process. It is an obligation of ours to ensure that the voice of refugees is heard. Of course, the talks will address the necessary conditions for options to open up for refugees, including the prospect of returns. This is something we follow closely, especially with respect to our obligation to ensure that the voice of refugees is heard and that the voice of those affected by conflict is heard in the talks to try to resolve those conflicts.