Steinmeier welcomes progress in the Middle East
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Beirut, 22 May 2008 (picture-alliance/dpa)
The Arab League has succeeded in Doha in negotiating an agreement to settle the constitutional crisis in Lebanon, while Syria and Israel have entered into indirect talks under Turkey's auspices following years of stalemate. There has thus been movement in two of the most difficult conflicts in the Middle East which gives cause for hope. Federal Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier welcomes both developments and is offering Germany's support for the forthcoming talks.
Following a five-day negotiating marathon, the Arab League's mediation efforts brought about a breakthrough between the Lebanese parties: in the night from Tuesday to Wednesday Government and Opposition agreed on a compromise to settle the constitutional crisis which has been going on for many months.
Federal Minister Steinmeier commended the agreement as a notable success and a "sign of hope for the people of Lebanon". He expressed his thanks and appreciation to the Emir and Prime Minister of Qatar for their efforts. Steinmeier stressed to the German Press Agency today: "We are now urging the parties to implement the agreement swiftly and in full. The various factions within Lebanon are called upon to play their part. However, the states in the region – especially Syria – must live up to their responsibility and make a constructive contribution to this process. Lebanon's sovereignty and the independence of its state institutions must not be called into question!"
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Road signs on Mount Bental, Golan Heights (picture-alliance/dpa)
Syria and Israel are negotiating
There has also been some progress in the decades-long conflict between Syria and Israel. Yesterday the two sides confirmed that they are conducting indirect talks under Turkey's auspices. The Federal Foreign Minister is not surprised: "During my talks in both Jerusalem and Damascus I have long since noticed a readiness in principle to open a dialogue on both sides. What's more, both parties have asked us to signal this readiness to the other side, for example during my visit to Damascus in December 2006."
Steinmeier said the fact that Syria and Israel have now publicly expressed their readiness to enter into indirect talks is an important signal and a positive first step: "I hope that this first step will evolve into formal talks. It goes without saying that Germany is ready to support such a dialogue in whatever way it can."
The Federal Foreign Minister has long since been advocating Syria's involvement in the peace efforts: "There cannot be a comprehensive and lasting peace settlement in the Middle East without Syria. But I have no illusions: the road to peace in the Middle East is a stony one and will continue to require much energy and steadfast commitment. What we are witnessing at present is just the very beginning. But even if there is just a small chance of reconciliation between Israel and Syria, we have to seize it!"
Last updated 22.05.2008
