France says implementation of US- Russia peace deal on Syria 'crucial' to end conflict

France on Saturday welcomed a peace deal reached between the United States and Russia on Syria but stressed its full implementation was "crucial" to end the civil war in the Arab country.

"I hail U.S.- Russia accord for a truce in Syria." French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault said in a statement.

Earlier on Saturday, United States, which back opposition groups, and Russia, a key ally of Syrian regime, announced nationwide ceasefire in Syria, which would be held from sundown on Monday.

The truce deal also calls for improving humanitarian aid access and a joint military operation against terrorist groups.

Up to 500,000 were killed in the five-year civil war in Syria.

Source : XINHUA