Spanish PM stresses commitment to Lebanon's stability

Visiting Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero on Friday stressed here Spain's commitment to Lebanon's future and stability, adding that his country is constantly working for regional peace, the local Now Lebanon news reported on its website.

When meeting with Lebanese President Michel Suleiman, Zapatero said that even before Spain takes on the EU presidency in January next year, it has started making contacts to find a solution to the Middle East crisis, highlighting that large collaboration efforts with Beirut will take place during Suleiman's visit to Madrid next week.

Suleiman thanked Spain for its ongoing support to Lebanon and for its participation in South Lebanon's peacekeeping force. He also praised the various role played by Spanish contingent of UN Interim Forces in Lebanon, notably its role in assisting the Lebanese Army's training and demining missions.

Suleiman said he expects to see new and improved relations with Spain during its presidency of the European Union, stating that until today, the Madrid Peace Conference of 1991 is still a valid reference for work toward just and comprehensive peace.

Zapatero arrived in Beirut on Friday, and has held meetings with several major Lebanese politicians.

Source: Xinhua