A partial ceasefire in Syria is being labelled the most significant breakthrough towards peace since civil war broke out five years ago.

World leaders have agreed to a nationwide "cessation of hostilities" and to expand and accelerate the delivery of desperately needed aid to besieged areas.

It comes as Russia continues its bombing on rebel-held areas and Syrian forces advance on rebel strongholds in the Aleppo province.

World Vision New Zealand chief executive Chris Clarke said the partial ceasefire is the most promising sign of peace in the conflict so far.

“To put this into context, for the last five years, there’s just been bombing raid, after bombing raid – much of this aimed at civilian, market places and schools.”
Mr Clarke said the partial ceasefire will allow aid agencies to deliver aid to millions of civilians who urgently need it.