Russia's president Putin meets Syria's president Assad

Syria, Sochi: Russian President Vladimir Putin met Bashar al Assad, the Syrian leader ahead of group of countries meeting, in which Turkey, Iran Syria and Russia will discuss how to restore peace in war torn Syria.

The meeting between Putin and Assad took place at Black sea resort of Sochi on Monday.

"It is in our interest to advance the political process... we don't want to look back and we are ready for dialogue with all those who want to come up with a political settlement," Assad said.

Putin said he would "consult" world leaders, including US president Donald Trump, on his talks with Assad.