On the meeting between Hariri and Bashar al-Assad

The Lebanese daily al-Safir reported on Monday that the meeting held between Syrian Col. Bashar al-Assad and former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri on Saturday night dealt with current conditions and local, regional and international developments.

The paper added that during the meeting Hariri raised the question of the grave economic situation in Lebanon and the situation of the Lebanese mass media, especially in criticizing him.

The paper added that Hariri heard from Bashar al-Assad assertions of Syria's understanding for his inquiries, but at the same time Syria supports the success of Lebanese President Emile Lahoud.

The meeting was attended by the head of Syrian intelligence in Lebanon, Lt. Gen. Ghazi Kanaan.