Region | Syria

Bashar-Sulaiman talks 'starting point of new chapter'

Syria's Foreign Minister Walid Mual'lem yesterday described the Syrian-Lebanese summit as a "starting point" of a new chapter in bilateral relations.

  • By Sami Moubayed, Correspondent
  • Published: 15:03 August 14, 2008
  • Gulf News

  • Syrian President Bashar Assad (left) welcomes Sulaiman at the presidential palace in Damascus.
  • Image Credit: EPA

Damascus: Syria's Foreign Minister Walid Mual'lem yesterday described the Syrian-Lebanese summit as a "starting point" of a new chapter in bilateral relations.

He told reporters here that President Bashar Al Assad was loud and clear when he said Lebanese President Michel Sulaiman's visit "must be a success."

Sulaiman, who was recently elected president after serving for many years as the Army Commander, was known for his strong relations with the Syrians and Hezbollah.

For his part, Vice-President Farouk Al Shara'a noted that during the visit "all issues will be placed on the negotiating table, in a brotherly manner."

Speaking to Gulf News, Samir Al Taki, an adviser to Prime Minister Mohammad Naji Otari, said that the Bashar-Sulaiman talks "reflect the wisdom shown by politicians in both countries, which is much needed to restore normal bilateral relations."

Lebanese political analyst Sarkis Abu Zayed added to Gulf News, "It is an opportunity to cross off problems of the past, re-evaluate the previous era for the sake of establishing economic, social and familial relations - on a peaceful basis - which would improve political relations (between Syria and Lebanon)."

Diplomatic relations between Syria and Lebanon have been a constant Leb-anese demand since the Syrian Army left Lebanon in April 2005.

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