The UN-Arab League Envoy to Syria, Kofi Annan is in Beijing to discuss a peaceful solution to the crisis in Syria. After meeting with Premier Wen Jiabao, Annan said his diplomacy efforts will take time. In response, Premier Wen said China fully supports Annan's mediation efforts.

Annan said, "I had a six-point plan which the Security Council has endorsed, dealing with issues of political discussions, withdrawal of heavy weapons and troops and populations centers; humanitarian assistance being allowed in unimpeded; release of prisoners; freedom of movement, and access for journalists to go in and out, so we will need to see how we move ahead and implement this agreement that they have accepted."

Acceptance and implementation are two different things–it was a seemingly confident Syrian president who toured the once opposition held area of Baba Amr in Homs, and there are questions as to whether President Assad is willing to give concessions at a time when he holds the upper hand militarily.

But the fact that this six point plan does not call for Assad to step down means the Security Council is, for now, united. The public backing from Moscow and Beijing for Annan's plan adds the pressure on Damascus.

Wen said, "We have full conviction in your mediation efforts, and we do believe that your mediation efforts will lead to progress and to a resolution of the Syrian issue, which will the finally and ultimately lead to a proper and impartial solution to the situation."

And as Syrian opposition figures gathered in Turkey, big questions remain as to whether the fractious groups will fully accept Annan's plan and pledge sit down and talk and whether they will lay down their arms if the Syrian Government agrees to do so.

All eyes are also on the Arab Summit due to begin in Iraq. Deep divisions exist among some countries wanting to arm the Syrian opposition. This means that for now it looks like Annan's peace efforts are the only game in town.

(CNTV.cn March 28, 2012)