Lahoud: Syrian track talks a test of Israel's credibility

Chaired by President Emile Lahoud, the Lebanese Cabinet on Wednesday held a meeting attended by Prime Minister Salim al-Hoss.

The Lebanese president stressed the importance of not being hasty toward the atmosphere of resuming peace negotiations in the region because, "It is an issue of destiny that needs deep study in all its aspects."

The Lebanese president added, "Testing of intentions made by Syria in this phase will be clearer in the next round of negotiations. It is a test which falls in the interest of Lebanon as Lebanon will join the negotiations in more stable and clear atmospheres"

Al-Hoss expressed his hope that Lebanon will restore its complete freedom from Israeli occupation and enjoy peace, stability and prosperity.

Replying to a question on the structure of the Lebanese delegation to the negotiations with Israel, Lebanese Information Minister Anwar al-Khalil said: "Lebanon is committed to the strategy of peace according to the already-known conditions and principles, especially the non-separability of the Syrian and Lebanese tracks and the emphasis on the implementation of UN resolution 425 and backing of the Lebanese national resistance and the steadfastness of our people in south Lebanon and the western Bekaa."