In Syria, a UN backed ceasefire has come into effect this morning. Reports indicate the ceasefire is holding on across the country barring stray incidents.UN Special envoy Kofi Annan had set the deadline for this morning for the Syrian Government and the rebels to halt fighting. The ceasefire is aimed at ending the year long strife in the country which has claimed over 9000 lives so far.UN Special envoy Kofi Annan said he received a letter from Syria that promised to cease all military fighting throughout Syrian territory. The letter also said that the Syrian troops would remain on alert to foil any any attacks by armed terrorist groups on civilians, troops or public and private property. However, the opposition said there was no sign of compliance on the ground as regime forces pounded protest centers. Western nations have voiced skepticism have said they would keep the pressure on Damascus to implement the six point peace plan. Foreign Ministers of G8 discussed the Syrian crisis in Washington. Britain and France and pressed for deployment of international monitors to verify the ceasefire.