Kofi Annan has announced that he will step down from his role as The UN-Arab League Special Envoy as was he was disappointed over the lack of progress in the Syrian peace process. Speaking at a press conference in Geneva he expressed his disappointment.

"I have therefore informed the Secretary-General of the UN, and the Secretary-General of the Arab League today, that I do not intend to continue my mission when my mandate expires at the end of August."

Mr Annan who took the job as Special Envoy five months ago said that 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. This departure leaves The UN chief Ban Ki-Moon and the Arab League Secretary-General Nabil racing to appoint a successor who can carry on the crucial peace-making effort in Syria. And with the UN General Assembly due to vote on later today with a revised draft of resolutions, it is hoped that further pressure will topple the Assad government.

Written and Presented by Ann Salter