Lahoud reiterates rejection to external pressures

Lebanese President Emile Lahoud said Monday that pressures exerted against Syria and Lebanon will not affect their commitment to the national firm stances and aspirations to achieve a just and comprehensive peace.

During a meeting with the Iranian President's Advisor Muhammad al-Sadr who handed Lahoud a Message from the Iranian President Muhammad Khatami, President Lahoud underlined the importance of Arab solidarity during this crucial stage. President Lahoud expressed appreciation over Iran's stances which back the Arab causes.

Lahoud reiterated Lebanon's rejection of terrorism and extremism, stressing the necessity of distinguishing the terrorist acts from the legitimate struggle of countries to liberate their lands from occupation.

The Iranian advisor, for his part, said Iran backs Lebanon, particularly during these sensitive conditions, adding Tehran rejects the (UN) foreign intervention in the Lebanese internal affairs.