Shahada explained in an intervention via ‘Sputnik’ radio that ‘the meeting was for consultation, as each party has its own perspective,’ noting many topics that will be discussed, including ‘the issue of Syrian refugees, the shared border between Lebanon and Syria, smuggling across the border, in addition to topics related to the economy.’
He added, ‘There is room for cooperation between the two countries on economic and livelihood topics such as energy, trade, and others that facilitate the lives of Lebanese and Syrian citizens.’
The Lebanese Minister of the Displaced considered that ‘Lebanon is making difficult choices to get out of the current situation, but they all aim at improving the situation in Lebanon, stopping hostile operations from Israel, liberating the five occupied points, and rebuilding the south.’
The minister stated, ‘What is happening in the relationship between Lebanon and Syria is part of restoring stability to the entire region,’ adding, ‘We are dealing with this issue from state to state, hoping that both parties will reach agreements on all the topics that will be discussed.’
The Lebanese government announced in a statement, following the visit of Prime Minister Nawaf Salam to Syria earlier, that ‘an agreement was reached to enhance security coordination between Syria and Lebanon,’ emphasizing that ‘the visit to Syria would open a new chapter in the course of relations between the two countries based on mutual respect and good neighborliness.’
Salam stressed the importance of maintaining Syria’s unity and lifting sanctions on it, affirming that ‘he discussed in Damascus the consideration of civil aviation lines between the two countries.’
