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MOSCOW, Nov. 22-- The presidents of Russia, Iran and Turkey agreed on Wednesday to continue their joint efforts to facilitate the possible transition to a political settlement in Syria and restore peace and stability in the war-torn country. "Large-scale military operations against terrorist gangs in Syria are coming to an end ... Militants in Syria suffered a decisive blow and there is a real chance to end the civil war that has lasted for years," Russian President Vladimir Putin said during a summit of the leaders of the three countries in the Russian city of Sochi. According to the heads of state, the creation of the de-escalation zones in Syria have been quite efficient and greatly helped to reduce violence, alleviate the humanitarian suffering, curb the flow of refugees and even provide conditions for the safe return of refugees. "The Presidents acknowledged that the 'Astana format' and its achievements have become an effective instrument for contributing to peace and stability in Syria ...Russia, Iran and Turkey would continue their coordinated efforts to ensure that the progress in reduction of violence is irreversible," said a joint statement issued after the summit. As a result of seven rounds of meetings on the Syrian conflict in the Kazakh capital of Astana, a nationwide ceasefire regime has been established in Syria, of which Russia, Iran and Turkey are guarantors, and four de-escalation zones are operating in key regions of the country. | 
