Syrian defense minister visits troops in Lebanon

At the directive of President Hafez al-Assad, Syrian Deputy Premier and Defense Minister Lt. Gen. Mustafa Tlass and high-ranking army officers on Wednesday visited one of the Syrian contingents working in Lebanon.

In a speech he delivered, Tlass spoke about the current conditions in the region due to the Israeli practices towards the peace process and against the Arab people in the occupied territories.

He added that such an Israeli policy just perpetuates aggression and occupation, a matter which requires all sides concerned to shoulder their responsibilities toward Middle East peace. He added that genuine peace is advocated by Syria, adding should be based on comprehensiveness and justice providing for security and stability for all.

He added that such peace is only attainable through implementing international legitimacy resolutions. He urged for exerting more relentless efforts and continued training in order to upgrade fighting capacities so as to deter "hostile aggressions targeting Arabs present and future, alike."