The Saudi Arabian Foreign Ministry issued a statement saying that it refutes and condemns a statement released by Russia on March 4, which included allegations that the Kingdon supports terrorism in Syria.
“Such irresponsible statements are misleading and don't take into account the kingdom’s keenness to deal with the Syrian crisis according to international rules and through the (UN) Security Council, which is concerned with preserving international peace and security,” the statement said.
“The Russian accusations are based on false assumptions reported by Syrian media, claiming that Al Qaeda, along with other armed terrorist groups, form the basis of the Syrian opposition, claims disputed by the international community,” the statement said.
Russia and China vetoed a UN Security Council resolution on Syria last month and bowed out of an international conference aimed at applying more pressure on the Damascus government over its continued crackdown on anti-government protesters. Both countries have, however, backed calls for humanitarian aid to be allowed access to the worst-hit areas.
Rights groups say more than 7,000 people have been killed in almost a year of unrest, which Syrian President Bashar al-Assad blames on "armed terrorist gangs."
