Problems with Syria Are Not Over
Lebanese Forces leader Samir Geagea said the problem with Syria is not over, adding that it is in Lebanon”s great interest to have best of relations with Damascus.
Geagea, addressing a dinner banquet on the 30th anniversary of Free Lebanon Radio said: "When it comes to Lebanon”s security a lot is required from Syria in this regard; the least of which are the existing camps, the flow of funds and arms through the borders."
"Can we ignore all these facts and go to Syria to tour and visit?" Geagea asked.
The LF leader pointed that some Lebanese say there are no more differences with Syria and things are getting better. "One must at least respect the feelings of other Lebanese," Geagea said.
He went on to reiterate his position saying: "If the coming days prove that Syria is not responsible for the political assassinations in Lebanon, I would be the first to apologize to Syria."
Geagea added that those supposed to travel to Syria are Lebanese officials going there with an official capacity to settle actual issues. "If we cannot find solutions to these issues … then there is no point in normalizing relations."
The forthcoming elections in the spring of 2009 would "decide whether Lebanon would proceed with the path launched in 2005 or return to the situation which persisted before that date," Geagea said.
He said families of Lebanese citizens missing in Syria have "the right to know whereabouts of their loved ones … the Syrians refuse to discuss this issue."
Geagea called for launching efforts to demarcate the Lebanese-Syrian borders "as soon as possible."