Sultanov: Russia Opposes Tribunal”s “Politicization” and Will Not Interfere in Cabinet Shape-Up
Visiting Russia”s deputy foreign minister Alexander Sultanov said Thursday that Moscow opposed the "politicization" of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon and will not accept a regional settlement at Lebanon”s expense.
Sultanov, who is also Russia”s special envoy for the Middle East peace process, arrived in Beirut early Thursday for a two-day visit as part of a regional tour that includes Syria, Jordan, the Palestinian Territories and Israel.After talks with Premier-designate Saad Hariri, Sultanov said Russia wanted the identity of former premier Rafik Hariri uncovered.
On the government, he said the formation task "was not easy" and stressed that Russia will "not interfere."
After earlier talks with President Michel Suleiman, Sultanov voiced hope for the "smooth" formation of a government "especially that all sides have accepted the outcome of the (June 7) parliamentary elections.
Sultanov said U.S. President Barack Obama”s policy was "driven by a new appreciation of the situation in the region and of the approach to find a solution" to the Arab-Israeli conflict.
The new U.S. administration”s attitude "forms a very useful element in the serious search for a way to push forward the peace process," Sultanov said.
He renewed an invitation for Suleiman to visit Moscow and said "diplomatic channels were working on a schedule" for the trip.
Sultanov also met Hizbullah MP Mohammed Raad and discussed the current situation in the country.
Earlier, al-Mustaqbal newspaper said Sultanov”s visit was 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 newspaper added that the envoy”s mission was 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.