Assad: The national-unity government is a guarantee for the tribunal

Source: nowlebanon.com, 13-06-2008

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad said that the establishment of a national-unity government in Lebanon is a guarantee for the non-politicization of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon.

He also said that the evolution of Lebanese-Syrian relations, his expected visit to Lebanon, and the establishment of diplomatic representation between Beirut and Damascus are conditioned on the formation of the national cabinet.

"The Doha Agreement was a political victory for Lebanon and Syria," Assad told the Hindu daily.
"This agreement will definitely turn a new page in Syrian-Lebanese relations. It is a victory for the Lebanese... and for this, Syria has protected itself... because when there is chaos or civil war in Lebanon, Syria will be directly affected," he added.

He added that his visit to Lebanon not only depends on the formation of the national-unity government, but also his discussions with Lebanese President Michel Suleiman.
"We haven't discussed this matter yet, even though I told him that Syria wants to help him and Lebanon... We are still waiting."

Assad confirmed that his visit to Lebanon will lead to diplomatic ties being established between the two countries. "We said this three years ago, and we have no problems with the issue... When you have bad relations with a state, you withdraw your ambassador and close the embassy... Now, after the establishment of the national-unity government, it will be normal for Syria to open an embassy in Lebanon," Assad told the paper.

He also said that the Special Tribunal for Lebanon will operate objectively, "if it is not politicized."
"So far, things are on the right course. We hope the tribunal will operate professionally, or else it will be politicized. The reports that were issued after Judge Detlev Mehlis stepped down have explained everything he has said."

"We are at ease, and things are so far taking a professional course," Assad added.