Austria's Kurz discusses Syria conflict with Putin

VIENNA, April 18 (Xinhua) -- Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz has spoken to his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Wednesday to discuss the escalating conflict in Syria, local media reported.

Kurz spoke to the Russian leader in a telephone conversation about diplomatic initiatives in solving the Syrian crisis as well as possible confidence-building steps toward a de-escalation of current tensions.

He said in a media statement later that a further escalation, particularly between Russia and the U.S., must be avoided at all costs.

He also noted that Russia, as an "important player" in Syria, must be part of finding a peaceful solution.

Kurz noted the Russian leader was calm in light of the recent escalations following a U.S.-backed missile strike in Syria, and appeared open to a continuation of dialogue.

The chancellor reiterated his stance that Austria could play host to negotiations, and indicated that Putin appeared open to this suggestion.

Kurz had also spoken to his German counterpart Angela Merkel earlier, covering the same issues. He told the Krone newspaper that both were in agreement that there could be no military solution to the Syria conflict. Enditem