Assad Rejects “Oscillating” Relations with Lebanon, Supports Firm Bilateral Ties
Syrian President Bashar Assad says he wants firm bilateral relations between his country and Lebanon but rejects an "oscillating" relationship.
Assad told As-Safir newspaper in remarks published on Wednesday that he supports bilateral relations ties but will not accept "oscillating" relations or those based on "political interests."
He continued to say that he was willing to cooperate with most Lebanese officials but indicated that he would not work with those who "don”t believe in Lebanon”s Arab [identity], or that Israel is an enemy, or that don”t support the resistance." He added that he would like to engage in dialogue with those with whom he differs in order to "convince [those individuals] of what we believe."
With regard to the Special Tribunal for Lebanon Assad indicated he would cooperate in the matter "so long as the rights of Syrian citizens are preserved" and the trial is not politicized.
The Syrian President also discussed the situation in the greater Middle East saying that "the plane of Arab reconciliation has taken off" but indicated that relations between some Arab countries are still strained.
Concerning talks with Israel, Assad said that "there is nothing serious [with regard to] indirect negotiations" which have been cut off since the recent events in Gaza.
Assad”s remarks coincide with President Michel Suleiman”s approval of the first Syrian ambassador to Lebanon, Ali Abdel Karim Ali.