Mr. Mahmoud Abbas, also known as Abu Mazen, the Secretary of the Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation Organization, met with Mr. Abdel Halim Khaddam, the Syrian Vice President, this afternoon in Damascus.
During the meeting, they discussed the current political and security situation faced by the Palestinian people in light of Israeli terrorism.
Mr. Abu Mazen provided an analysis of political events and developments since the Camp David talks, led by President Yasser Arafat with skill and firmness. He emphasized that they seized every opportunity and remained committed to their minimum rights, including the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on the territories occupied in 1967, with minor adjustments handled equally and without prejudice.
Mr. Abu Mazen reiterated the Palestinian principles regarding Jerusalem, refugees, settlements, and security.
The Syrian Vice President explained the regional and international stance, dedicating part of the discussion to Syrian-Palestinian relations. He highlighted that the circumstances and conditions in the region necessitate the coordination of positions between Syria and Palestine.
During the meeting, Mr. Khaddam announced that Syrians and Palestinians are currently in a phase where there is no longer any difference in their political positions.
The Syrian Vice President emphasized Syria’s clear and explicit desire to invite President Arafat to visit Damascus for talks in order to establish a common position and coordinate efforts to address challenges, particularly Sharon’s destructive policies that are pushing the region to the brink of war.
Mr. Khaddam concluded the meeting by stating, “We eagerly anticipate Syrian-Palestinian relations and coordination without any conditions or reservations, and we eagerly await President Arafat’s visit.”
