Greece Hails Syria as Stabilizing Factor in Middle East
Wednesday November 20th provided another example of Syria’s increasing influence within the Middle East. The occasion was the meeting of Greek President Karolos Papoulias and Syrian Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs Abdullah al-Dardari. Papoulias voiced his approval of the Syrian administration and the leadership of President Bashar al-Assad, proclaiming Syria as one of the keys to the region’s issues. President Papoulias reiterated much of the popular thought in the region on the issue, stressing that in order for the Arab-Israeli conflict to be resolved, Israel’s withdrawal from the Golan was essential. He also emphasized his disapproval of American aggression towards Syria.
The Greek president repeatedly voiced his ringing endorsement of Syria, affirming Greece’s willingness to participate in bilateral economic and political relations. Assad repeated these same sentiments, reaffirming Syria’s desire to participate with Greece in the economic and political advancement of both countries. This meeting between Syria and Greece provides more evidence of the cooperation Syria has undertaken to remove its isolationist label and to encouarge a positive image in the eyes of the international community.
Samuel Anene
