Jacques Chirac, the French President, received Abdel Halim Khaddam, the Syrian Vice President, and Farouq El-Shara, the Syrian Minister of Foreign Affairs, in Paris as part of Syria’s efforts to counter Israeli maneuvers regarding Security Council resolution 425, aimed at rendering it devoid of significance.The two parties engaged in discussions regarding the Israeli proposal.
Khaddam affirmed that both France and Syria share the view that resolution 425 demands an unconditional Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon, devoid of any conditions or obligations.
Khaddam emphasized his perception that French policy remained unconvinced of the seriousness of the Israeli proposal. He further stated that Syria’s stance is unequivocal, asserting that if the Israeli government genuinely seeks peace, it must adhere to the established principles and terms of reference. However, contrary to this, Israel continues to obstruct peace efforts on multiple fronts. The actions of the Israeli government towards the Palestinians, despite numerous agreements, serve as confirmation of Israeli maneuvers.