Russia hoped all Syrian political groups would create favorable conditions for an upcoming constitutional referendum in the country, the Russian Foreign Ministry said Thursday.

"Moscow regards this move as evidence, despite the complicated security situation, that the Syrian leadership is fulfilling its promises to carry out profound political and socio-economic reforms in line with the transitional schedule announced on Jan. 10," the ministry said in a statement.

It said the national referendum would also show the Syrian people's democratic will, which included a ceasefire, an end to the violence and the beginning of an inclusive dialogue.

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad issued a presidential decree Wednesday, setting Feb. 26 as the date for the referendum on a new draft constitution.

Violence has continued to escalate in Syria, which has been hit by 11 months of unrest.