Russia, US sign 'memorandum' on air safety over Syria

A Russian SU-24M jet fighter takes off from an airbase Hmeimim in Syria.

Moscow - "The memorandum contains a number of rules and restrictions aimed at preventing incidents between American and Russian plans," Deputy defence minister.

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By AFP

Published: Tue 20 Oct 2015, 9:56 PM

Last updated: Wed 21 Oct 2015, 3:02 AM

The United States and Russia have signed a memorandum of understanding that establishes air safety measures so pilots from the two countries steer clear of each other as they conduct separate bombing campaigns, the Pentagon said Tuesday.
"With today's signatures, the memorandum of understanding is now in effect," Pentagon press secretary Peter Cook told reporters. "That was signed a short time ago, earlier today."
Separately, Russian media reported that the memorandum had been signed by officials in Moscow and the United States.
"The memorandum contains a number of rules and restrictions aimed at preventing incidents between American and Russian plans," Deputy Defense Minister, Anatoly Antonov said, according to Ria-Novosti.
Russia asked for "deconfliction" talks with the United States after Moscow began bombing Syria on September 30.
The United States is leading a 60-plus member coalition targeting Daesh in Iraq and Syria and has been carrying out frequent raids for more than a year.
Russia also claims to be targeting Daesh and other "terrorists" but the Pentagon says it is hitting non-Daesh rebels fighting government forces loyal to President Bashar Al Assad.

AFP

Published: Tue 20 Oct 2015, 9:56 PM

Last updated: Wed 21 Oct 2015, 3:02 AM

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