France in talks prior to arming rebels

Foreign ministers from the Friends of Syria anti-Assad alliance this Saturday will discuss assistance to the Free Syrian Army. Countries include United States, France, Saudi Arabia and Turkey.

France will not take a decision towards arming the rebels prior to 1 August. More talks need to be held with the rebels before France agrees to the supply of heavy weapons. Consultations with General Salim Idriss are being planned.

General Idriss has made public his immediate needs as the conflict keeps unfolding. The request ranges from tent pegs to anti-tank and anti-aircraft weapons. These needs have been discussed with intelligence officers and diplomats in Ankara last week.

Russian President Vladimir Putin harshly condemned talks of arming the rebels however reiterated his decision to supply arms to Assad. As rebels scramble to push back advances by Assad's forces France voiced its concerns over tipping the balance of power.

The country has until now supplied Idriss with bullet proof vests, night vision goggles and communications equipment. More equipment and technical assistance have been promised.