The Deputy Prime Minister, Mr. Issam Fares has expressed his appreciation of the complete withdrawal of Syrian forces from Lebanon, and the closure of this issue. Mr. Fares insists that relations with Syria should be at their best because they emanate from the geographic and historical realities as well as common interests.

Mr. Fares went on to say that all political forces in Lebanon should do their utmost in order for the country to regain its well-being, and to reinforce its unity, and enhance its sovereignty and independence in order for Lebanon to be able to pursue its leading role in the area, and to present itself as a model within the international community of an open country that is tolerant, democratic, free and abiding by human rights; a country of dialogue and interaction between religions, cultures, and civilizations. The newspaper An-Nahar had requested the views on Mr. Fares who is abroad and is planning to attend the Arab summit in Algeria.

When asked about the reasons for his absence from the parliamentary consultations that the Prime Minister was carrying in order to form a new government, Mr. Fares answered: The reason is due to my being outside of the country; furthermore, since I have started working in the public field, I will admit frankly, that I had vowed not to side with one group or faction. Rather, I would like to play the role of a conciliator trying to pull the various groups to agree on a course of action, thereby, ushering unity to the country. I believe that Lebanon cannot get out of this crisis unless all of its citizens support and sustain each other.

As to his participation in the new government, Mr. Fares said that it all depends on the quality of the government that is going to be formed, and the various factions that will be included. Mr. Fares added that he will not participate in the government unless he is convinced that it will be in the interest of Lebanon to do so. This is why he will attend the Arab summit in Algeria, for whatever the differences and factions within the country, Lebanon cannot absent itself from such an important meeting where many topics will be discussed that are connected with common Arab action, and that may not include Lebanese issues. Moreover, the Lebanese delegation to the summit was formed prior to the latest events, and the former Prime Minister, Mr. Omar Karami who has been appointed to form a new government is very busy with consultations within the country and will not be able to attend the conference.

As to Mr. Fares’ opinion regarding the formation of an international committee whose aim is to investigate the assassination of the former Prime Minister, Mr. Rafik Hariri, the Deputy Prime Minister said that he will back any committee that will seek to find the truth of the matter. What is important is the result, for the crime is not a regular crime; it targeted an exceptional Lebanese personality, and had as a goal the destabilization of the country.

As to the visit of the Maronite Patriarch Sfeir to the USA, and his meeting with President Bush, Fares commented that it is an important visit because the Patriarch will be able to enlighten the American president on the views and aspirations of the Lebanese people.