Geneva, Aug 2, (RHC), -- The UN-Arab League Special Envoy to Syria, Kofi Annan, said on Thursday he will leave the post after his current mandate expires on Aug. 31, expressing disappointment over the lack of progress in the Syrian peace process.

At a press conference held in Geneva, Annan, who took the job as Special Envoy for Syria about five months ago, said he had informed the UN and the Arab League earlier in the day his intention to not to continue for a second term.

Annan said without united international pressure, it is impossible for him and anyone else to compel the Syrian government and the Syrian opposition to take the steps necessary to begin the political process.

Annan also blamed the Syrian government for its "continued refusal" of the six-point peace plan and held the opposition fighters responsible for the escalation of violence.

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon released a statement expressing his deepest gratitude to Annan, as he currently holds consultations on prompt appointment of a successor. /XINHUA

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