New Delhi: The Iraq situation is expected to be high on the agenda of talks External Affairs Minister Yashwant Sinha will have with Syrian and Turkish leaders during his six-day official visit to the two countries from August 1.

The visit takes place in the backdrop of a possible fresh UN resolution on Iraq giving a broader mandate to member countries to participate in the stabilisation force in the war-ravaged country.

India has held that it could consider sending troops to Iraq if there was an "explicit UN mandate".

New Delhi holds the views of Syria, Turkey and other neighbouring countries of Iraq important for a proper assessment of the situation in that country.

During his visit to Syria from August 1-4, Sinha will call on President Bashar Assad, Prime Minister Mustafa Miro and will hold bilateral consultations with Farouk al Shara, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister.

Bilateral, regional and international issues will be discussed, external affairs ministry spokesman told reporters.

India and Syria have historically close and friendly relations. Bilateral trade last year exceeded 130 million dollars.

Syria has consistently condemned acts of terrorism in India and has shown sensitivity to its concerns in the OIC and other Islamic fora.

"The visit is likely to enhance the political understanding between the two countries," he said.

PTI