GENEVA, Dec. 14 (Xinhua) -- The head of the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) said Wednesday that a political solution is needed to end Syria's longstanding war, adding that the country plans to increase its humanitarian operations in the region to assist those most in need.
"Only a political solution will lead to lasting peace and put an end to the suffering of Syria's civilian population," said Didier Burkhalter in a statement.
"Switzerland must maintain its emergency action plans whilst increasing its aid in the region by supporting those countries which are hosting refugees," he added.
While calling for all parties to the conflict to respect international humanitarian law, the FDFA reminded that warring factions must provide the necessary safety guarantees to allow aid convoys to reach people trapped in besieged and hard-to-reach areas.
According to UN estimates, some 400,000 people have lost their lives since the conflict pitching forces loyal to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and rebel groups seeking to oust him began in March 2011.
Millions more have had no choice but to flee the protracted violence and reigning insecurity.
