The formation of a Syrian Congress that includes the nation's opposition and all ethnic groups has been proposed at the seventh round of peace talks in Kazakhstan's capital Astana.

Russian presidential envoy Alexander Lavrentyev said further details will be discussed on the second day. He added Russia has been trying everything possible to help the Syrian government and opposition cooperate and strengthen trust. The two-day talks in Astana mark the latest diplomatic initiative to implement a lasting ceasefire agreement and pave the way for a political settlement for Syria.