Syrian Vice President Abdul Halim Khaddam said after casting his vote that many key and critical issues await Syria in the coming period, relating to the Arab-Israeli conflict, the current Arab situation, and the stance of the Arab world towards the new world order.
He added, “The main issue for Syria is transitioning into the 21st century, and what this transition requires in terms of efforts and decisions so that Syria can face the century with greater strength.”
Khaddam also stated that the Syrian people, in their adherence to Assad’s leadership, want him to lead them into the next century, as they have come to trust his leadership, which has spared them from many storms and shocks. He has enabled Syria to face pressures and challenges and overcome them. Khaddam added that the president’s visit to Amman to offer condolences for the late Jordanian king is part of the president’s aspiration for strong relations with all Arab brothers and to achieve Arab solidarity, aiming to overcome fear and anxiety while securing the national interests of Syria, Jordan, and the entire Arab world.
He also said that the Israelis know that Syria has always been and will remain united around its leader. If they want peace, the door is open, but if they continue with their expansionist Zionist plans, they will face a strong, steadfast people capable of defending their rights. Regarding the meeting between Assad and Clinton, Khaddam said, “We hope it will leave positive signs on bilateral relations and the peace process, but we know that the peace process is currently stalled due to Israel’s refusal to fulfill its obligations and the legitimate references of this process.”