Cook describes Syrian-British relations as good

British Foreign Minister Robin Cook on Monday praised the achievements realized in Syria, SANA reported.

In a statement to SANA's correspondent in London, Cook added that President al-Assad's achievements and contributions to developing Syria and its people is a "very well-known matter for all," adding that the Syrian people will express their decision in a referendum this month.

Cook described Syrian - British relations as good. He added that he was pleased to meet with President al-Assad during his visit to Damascus last year, as well as with the visit of British Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Derek Fatchett and the meeting of Foreign Minister Farouk al-Sharaa with Fatchett in London last May.

Cook said that discussions made in all meetings with Syrian officials were comprehensive and held in a friendly atmosphere, "We are building an understanding that guarantees a long-term partnership."

He asserted his country's adherence to achieving progress on the Syrian and Lebanese tracks in the Middle East peace process and stressed that the Syrian track is basic to achieving just and comprehensive peace in the region.

Cook continued that negotiations on these tracks are a matter of relevance to the sides concerned. "If these sides ask our help we will be ready. But we do not seek a special role for Britain. Our efforts are in the context of the European Union and activities of the EU - Middle East special envoy, who is carrying out useful consultations with the sides concerned."

Cook said that Fatchett's visit to Damascus in December 1998 demonstrates the priority "we" give to the Syrian track in the Middle East peace process and to protecting contacts with all sides. He indicated that there is a strong basis for peace embodied in UN Security Council resolutions 242, and 338.

"We actually believe that the realization of tangible progress on the Syrian-Israeli tracks is not possible before the Israeli elections. Yet, we will continue our support for resuming negotiations," he said, also expressing deep concern over the stalemate in the Middle East peace process, saying that his country will be committed to the basics of the Madrid conference.

He added, "We expect Israel to honor its obligations toward the peace process. Regardless of the nature of the next government in Israel, we expect it to proceed with the peace process."

He explained that Britain is determined to exert all possible efforts, through the EU, to help reset the peace process onto its right track, noting that the forthcoming visit of the German foreign minister, in his capacity as chairman of the European Council, will be a chance to discuss the Middle East peace process with sides concerned and to explore means through which Europe can help in reviving process.