Sultanov in Beirut to Discuss Mideast Peace with Lebanese Officials
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Sultanov arrived in Beirut at dawn Thursday for a two-day visit during which he will discuss the Middle East peace process with Lebanese officials.
Al-Mustaqbal newspaper said Sultanov”s visit is not liked to the formation of the Lebanese cabinet. However, he will stress during his talks with Lebanese officials on government formation as part of national dialogue and away from regional interference.
The state-run National News Agency said Sultanov will meet with a number of officials in Beirut and will discuss with them Russia”s role in supporting Lebanon.
Lebanon is the first stop in the Russian official”s tour to the region, which includes Syria, Jordan, the Palestinian territories and Israel.
Al-Mustaqbal said that Moscow has sent Sultanov to the region because he is the Russian envoy for the Middle East Quartet — comprising the EU, Russia, the United Nations and the United States.
The newspaper added that the envoy”s mission is to encourage parties concerned with resuming peace talks. Consequently, he will listen to the lebanese leaders” viewpoints on efforts to achieve peace in the region.