Russia: Syria's pullout should be gradual

"Syrian pullout from Lebanon should be gradual in order not to hurt stability in Lebanon," a senior Russian official said Friday.

In a statement to the press, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stressed the importance of securing Syria and Lebanon's security since they are important factors of stability in the region, asserting Russia's friendship with both countries.

He also pointed out that his country works vigorously to settle the current crisis in Lebanon, referring that Russia sees no justifications for arousing tension in the region in an artificial way.

Lavrov underlined that the UN resolution 1559 shouldn't be used to meet some parties' special aims.