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Putting the onus on Tehran
The visit by Lebanese President Michel Sulaiman to Iran should be seen as the basis of a new and practical relationship between the two countries.
- Gulf News
- Published: 23:15 November 25, 2008
The visit by Lebanese President Michel Sulaiman to Iran should be seen as the basis of a new and practical relationship between the two countries. For all the obvious reasons, Iran is a player that could not be overlooked when it comes to a number of issues that affect internal Lebanese matters.
Sulaiman's visit is the first since he took office six months ago and comes as an attempt to open the doors with Iran in a constructive and positive way.
Undoubtedly, improving relations between the two countries would prove beneficial to both sides. There are issues of great importance that need to be tackled such as the role Iran plays in Lebanon and its relationship with Hezbollah.
Although Iran had always denied that it has any influence in Lebanese internal political affairs, its presence could be felt through a variety of channels. But having said that, Lebanon has taken the right step by openly and directly meeting with Iranian officials.
Sulaiman's visit should set the tone for future cooperation between the two countries on a number of shared interests. Most important of all is that Iran, too, extends its arm of cooperation and respect for the sovereignty of other countries.
Your comments
Lebanese President Michel Sulaiman's visit to Tehran is a most significant move towards paving the way for a vital bilateral relationship between the two countries. It is worth mentioning that US always used to blame Iran for supporting Hezbollah externally, which is totally baseless. The recent visit of the Lebanese leader will play a major role to keep the negative-thinking people away. Long live Lebanon.
Mohammad Ajmal
New Delhi,India
Posted: November 26, 2008, 13:17
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