Despite accusations of violations, the cessation of hostilities in Syria has resurrected a gleam of hope for an end to the conflicts that have killed more than 270,000 people and displaced millions. But analysts warn that negotiations will still struggle to achieve a durable peace, as divergences between the government and rebels are huge, and the world powers drawn in are also competing.
"What is the real issue? The mother of all issues?" said Staffan De Mistura, UN special envoy for Syria.
The UN mediator is pretty sure about the answer.
This was agreed on by the United States and Russia, who have been fully engaged in the peace efforts. Although the two countries support differing sides in Syria.
But the fate of President Bashar al-Assad remains a huge hurdle.
The opposition, the United States and their allies hold the Assad regime responsible for the mass killing of civilians and rebel fighters.
"We are looking forward to discussing the transitional governing body that would carry executive powers, including those of the presidency, which would not have a role, in that phase or any phase, for any criminal who has perpetrated crimes against the Syrian people, including Assad," said Salem Al-muslat, spokesman of Syrian Opposition High Negotiations Committee.
But Assad maintains his regime is only fighting terrorists.
"We will not talk about the president's future with anyone, this is a red line and the decision of the Syrian people. If they still have that fantasy in their mind, they better not go to the talks," said Walid Al-moallem, Syrian deputy prime minister.
Also making matters complicated is that the government refuses direct talks with the Saudi-backed Syria opposition High Negotiations Committee.
"We as the delegation of Syria are not honored to sit with a terrorist in direct talks. The chief of the opposition delegation, Mohammed Alloush is a terrorist who belongs to a terrorist group," said Bashar Al-jaafari, head of Syrian Government Delegation.
As there are still large distances between the Syrian government and the opposition on key issues, it will be a tough task for the UN envoy Staffan de Mistura help the two hostile sides reconcile.
