Russian, French presidents back Lebanese rights

Russian President Boris Yeltsin has asserted his country's backing for Lebanon in order to restore its territories and national sovereignty.

In a cable of congratulations he sent on Monday to Lebanese President Emile Lahoud on the occasion of the 56th anniversary of Lebanon's independence, Yeltsin said: "We have feelings of sympathy towards your country and highly appreciate the constructive role it plays in international and regional issues, including the question of establishing peace in the Middle East."

Yeltsin added, "In our capacity as one of the Middle East peace process cosponsors, we will proceed in backing Lebanon in the efforts to restore its unwavering rights to its lands and national sovereignty. We also confirm out firm policy in developing exchanged partnership and pan-cooperation relations with Lebanon."

Meanwhile, French President Jacque Chirac has asserted his country's total backing for Lebanon and its territorial security.

In the cable of congratulations he sent to President Lahoud on Monday, Chirac said, "At the time when countries of the Middle East are seeking a just and comprehensive peace, France more than any time before backs Lebanon's independence and its territorial integrity."