Khaddam: no peace with occupation; Israel has to abide by UN resolutions

Syrian Vice- President Abdul Halim Khaddam on Thursday said the way to peace in the Middle East is clear: provide for Israel's commitment to UN resolutions, the Madrid's terms of reference, resuming negotiations from the point they stopped at and adherence to obligations approved by the government of Yitzak Rabin.

In statements to reporters following his meeting with the Russian Duma council chairman, Khaddam said, "I think no one in the world believes peace will be established in the ME region with the perpetuation of occupation and aggressions."

When asked about the continuing US military buildup in the Gulf despite the accord signed between the UN and Iraq, Khaddam expressed hope the accord will be implemented and lead to the establishment of security and stability in the region.

Replying to a question on whether Syria views upgrading relations with Russia as an expression of Syrian worry that the peace process has reached a deadlock, Khaddam said Syria and Russia have a mutual desire to reactivate bilateral relations that would serve the Russian people, the people of Syria, and the Middle East peace process.

The Russian Duma chief said his meeting with Khaddam was very successful.