The Pope called on the parties to dialogue in order to avoid a humanitarian catastrophe in Idlib

He noted that there is still war in Syria and "there is a risk of a humanitarian disaster in the province of Idlib."

At the same time the pontiff added that "it is necessary to use the tools of diplomacy, dialogue and negotiations in accordance with the requirements of the world humanitarian norms in order to protect the lives of civilians."

Earlier in the Russian Foreign Ministry said that Russia is discussing the situation in Idlib and Afriena with Iran and Turkey, as well as with the Syrian government and representatives of the opposition.

It was also reported that Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that Moscow urged Western partners not to play with fire in Syrian Idlib, where, according to the Defense Ministry, a provocation using chemical weapons is being prepared.