Syria’s new leader Ahmad Sharaa seeks to establish long-term strategic ties with Lebanon, urging the nation to move past historical grievances. He emphasized the importance of respect for sovereignty and mutual interests, with Lebanon’s Prime Minister Mikati focusing on border control and the issue of missing Lebanese in Syrian custody. Both leaders aim for a cooperative relationship moving forward.
In a significant development, Syria’s new leader Ahmad Sharaa called on Lebanon to move past the tumultuous relations of the past, which were marked by the oppressive decades of Assad family rule. He emphasized that the recent visit by Lebanese caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati to Damascus would herald a new phase of cooperation, anchored in mutual respect and sovereignty. Sharaa expressed a commitment to resolving outstanding issues between the two nations, underscoring there would be long-term strategic ties shaped by shared interests.
Acknowledging the historical strains under previous Syrian leaderships, Sharaa stated, “Let’s give ourselves a chance to build a positive relationship …based on respect for both countries and their sovereignty.” He assured that new Syria intends to disengage from favoring any one Lebanese party, aiming instead for solutions through dialogue and cooperation.
The talks between Sharaa and Mikati centered on crucial topics such as border control to combat illegal crossings, primarily associated with arms and drug smuggling, as well as the demarcation of land and maritime borders. Mikati reaffirmed commitment to ensuring Lebanon’s security, proposing a joint committee to oversee these endeavors. Amid recent tensions highlighted by new Syrian restrictions on Lebanese entry, the discussions also addressed the plight of numerous missing Lebanese, with Mikati pledging to submit a comprehensive list of individuals who disappeared in Syrian custody. Additionally, inquiries were made regarding the fate of missing American journalist Austin Tice, with assurances that the new Syrian administration is committed to investigating his case.
The dynamics between Syria and Lebanon have been historically complex, marred by decades of Syrian military presence and political influence. After Syria’s army initially intervened in Lebanon during the civil war in 1976, Damascus established itself as the primary power broker in Lebanon until its withdrawal in 2005. This prolonged domination led to deep-seated resentment in Lebanon, which sought independence and stability following years of external interference. The recent political shifts in Syria, subsequent to the ousting of Bashar Assad, present a potential turning point for Lebanese-Syrian relations, offering opportunities for renewed dialogue and cooperation.
The meeting between Syria’s new leader Ahmad Sharaa and Lebanese caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati represents a potential shift in the historically fraught relations between the two nations. Sharaa’s commitment to building a respectful partnership free from past hostilities, alongside an emphasis on resolving border issues and the plight of missing persons, signals a readiness for a cooperative future. However, the effectiveness of these promises will depend on tangible actions that respect Lebanon’s sovereignty and address lingering tensions.
Original Source: www.upi.com
