Syrian President Bashar Assad on Wednesday was quoted as saying that "the plane of Arab reconciliation has taken off" but indicated that relations between some Arab countries are still strained. He added that Syrian-Saudi relations have improved recently, but more time is needed to overcome all the differences.
Concerning talks with Israel, Assad said that "there is nothing serious [with regard to] indirect negotiations" which have been cut off since the recent events in Gaza. He stressed that Syria sees the peace as a "strategic choice" while Israel sees it as a "tactical move". Assad claimed that the indirect talks started just after outgoing Israeli premier Ehud Olmert promised to withdraw from Syrian lands occupied in 1967. "When we wanted to make progress we found out the Israeli (side) was not ready," he was quoted as saying.
The Syrian leader also said he wants firm bilateral relations between his country and Lebanon but rejects an "oscillating" relationship. Assad told As-Safir newspaper that he supports bilateral relations ties but will not accept "oscillating" relations or those based on "political interests."
He continued to say that he was willing to cooperate with most Lebanese officials but indicated that he would not work with those who "don't believe in Lebanon's Arab [identity], or that Israel is an enemy, or that don't support the resistance." He added that he would like to engage in dialogue with those with whom he differs in order to "convince [those individuals] of what we believe."
With regard to the Special Tribunal for Lebanon Assad indicated he would cooperate in the matter "so long as the rights of Syrian citizens are preserved" and the trial is not politicized.
