Arab League SG Amr Mousa Meets Syria's Assad, VP and FM

DAMASCUS, Syria, July 9--Arab League Secretary General Amr Moussa visited Syria on Monday for bi-lateral talks with President Bashar Assad, with discussions on the current situation in Lebanon and the Palestinian issue top of the agenda.

They discussed the recent emergency meeting of Arab foreign ministers, settle ling Lebanon's escalating situation, ensuring stability, and ending political assassinations.

Viewpoints were identical on the necessity of reviving the inter-Palestinian dialogue and realizing the Palestinian national reconciliation, and the importance of protecting the Arab solidarity in light of circumstances the Arab nation is facing.

Foreign Minister Walid al-Moallem and Deputy Foreign Minister Faisal Miqdad attended the meeting.

Vice-President Farouk al-Shara continued talks with Moussa in a separate meeting in the presence of Mr. Miqdad.

"Talks during the meetings dealt with all sensitive points, particularly the situation in Lebanon and Palestine in addition to the Iraqi issue and the upcoming steps within the Arab frame," Moussa told reporters in a statement following his meeting with Mr. al-Shara.

He expressed satisfaction of the discussions' outcome, saying "my contacts and visits to Arab countries concentrate on Arab issues and concerns," describing the situation during this stage as "dangerous," the matter that requires from all solidarity and consultation.

As for Iraq, Mr. Moussa said "the Arab League seeks to realize reconciliation among the Iraqi people on clear bases and according to Arab League decisions regarding the Iraqi situation."

On the Palestinian developments, Arab League Chief underlined the importance of national dialogue and the Palestinian national unity, expressing belief "the Arab countries won't take any step that could support a side at the expense of the other side, away of Palestinian principles and the Palestinian people's rights."

Last June 19, Amr Moussa visited Lebanon and held talks that focused on forming a national unity government, sticking to the date of presidential elections constitutionally set to take place during September 25 to November 25, as well matters relevant to Palestinian arms in Lebanon.

Lebanese government officials claim that Syria backs Fatah al-Islam.

Damascus denies the claim, saying it considers Fatah al-Islam a dangerous "terrorist" organization.

Moussa answered critics that there has been slow progress in the political process in Lebanon, saying the issue was sensitive and complex.

For the first time in its history, an Arab League delegation will visit Israel on Thursday to push the Saudi Initiative, which calls for the return of all Arab lands captured and occupied by the Zionist regime in 1967.

The League of Arab States, or Arab League, aims to improve ties among member states, coordinate their policies in social and economic arenas and direct them towards mutual welfare.
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