Lebanon‘s Kataeb Party Welcomes Shift in Syria‘s Stance, Calls for Immediate Action on Detainees
The Kataeb Party of Lebanon has lauded Syria’s recent statements as a positive turning point in bilateral relations, expressing hope that these signals will lead to balanced ties that respect the sovereignty and independence of both countries. In a statement issued on Sunday, the party welcomed the new Syrian regime’s approach towards Lebanon, particularly the remarks made by its chief, Ahmed Shar Tae, regarding theKillings of Lebanese figures by the Assad regime, including the assassination of former Lebanese President Bachir Gemayel.
The Kataeb Party also applauded the Syrian regime’s acknowledgment of a fresh start with all components of Lebanon’s society. Additionally, the party praised the readiness of the new Syrian government to address the sensitive issue of Lebanese detainees held in Syrian prisons, calling this a significant step towards resolving one of the most pressing humanitarian issues between the two nations.
"Time is of the essence," the party stated, urging the Lebanese government to immediately assign a competent authority to engage with the Syrian side and provide a comprehensive and accurate list of all Lebanese detainees in Syrian prisons, including Kataeb’s political bureau member, Petr Khounded. The party emphasized that every day of delay causes further suffering for the families of the detainees.
The Kataeb Party also called on the new Syrian administration to arrest any Syrian officials involved in the assassinations in Lebanon and to extradite the fugitive Habib Shartuni to serve his sentence. The party expressed its appreciation for the Syrian people’s removal of the oppressive regime, hoping that these positive steps and stances would mark the beginning of a new era in Lebanese-Syrian relations, based on mutual respect and shared interests, ultimately benefiting both nations and promoting regional stability.
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