The Council is currently discussing a U.S.-drafted resolution that calls for an end to the violence in Syria. It is not expected to vote on the resolution until Annan returns from the Middle East and briefs the Council. Annan is currently in Jordan after a two-day visit to Damascus, where he met with President Bashar Al-Assad. In remarks in Jordan on Monday, Annan said, “here are grave and appalling reports of atrocities and abuses. The killing of civilians must stop now. The world has to send a clear and united message in this regard.” --SPA 12:05 LOCAL TIME 09:05 GMT www.spa.gov.sa/979068