ensuring rehabilitation of public services, the rule of law and the safe, voluntary and sustainable return of refugees and internally displaced people (IDPs). We reiterate the importance of preserving the multi-ethnic, multi-religious and multi-confessional character of the Syrian and Iraqi societies. We also recognise the threat posed by ISIL/Da’esh branches and covert networks outside of Iraq and Syria to regional stability and security. We recognize that more needs to be done to tackle ISIL/Da’esh, including its online messaging, throughout the world to ensure that ISIL/Da’esh is not able to take advantage of, or expand in, ungoverned or unstable territories. SYRIA Six years into the Syrian war, the Syrian people have endured the most tremendous suffering, and no efforts should be spared to bring this conflict to an end. We express grave concern at continuing violence and the lack of humanitarian access. We call upon all parties, in particular the regime and its backers, including Russia and Iran, to allow sustainable, unhindered and adequate humanitarian assistance to all people in need. We welcomed international efforts aimed at establishing a nationwide ceasefire, including the Russia and Turkey-brokered ceasefire, announced on 29 December 2016. While noting the Joint statement by Iran, Russia and Turkey at the International meeting on Syria held in Astana on 23-24 January and of the following meetings in the Kazak capital, we urge them to live up to their commitments and to use their influence on the parties to observe and ensure full compliance with the ceasefire, reduce violence, build confidence, ensure unhindered humanitarian access and the protection and free movement of civilians. In this regard, we express our grave concern at the constant violations of the ceasefire, committed primarily by the Syrian regime and its allies. Despite Syrian regime’s claims, this activity does not target primarily UN-designated terrorist groups. We urgently call on all parties to implement immediately and fully relevant UN Security Council Resolutions demanding rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access to people in need throughout Syria. We condemn the perpetuation of sieges throughout the country, the starving and bombing of civilians, the numerous attacks on medical facilities and personnel and breaches of international humanitarian law by all parties, notably by the regime. Joint Communiqué | G7 FOREIGN MINISTERS MEETING 6