Albright stresses efforts for Middle East peace

United States Secretary of State Madeleine Albright stressed her country's continued efforts to realize a just and comprehensive peace in the region.

In a message conveyed by the American ambassador in Lebanon to Lebanese President Elias Hrawi, she said the U.S. is committed to reviving the stalled negotiations between Arab countries and Israel.

The message praised Hrawi's efforts to consolidate stability and reconstruct Lebanon. It also said the situation in Lebanon has improved to an extent that the ban on American travel to Lebanon was lifted on July 31.

The American ambassador in Lebanon said after meeting President Hrawi that his country wants the situation in Lebanon to be according to the "April understanding." He added that the goal of the "April understanding" is to protect civilians and civil buildings from any Israeli attacks.