US envoy tells Damascus to back Iraq, keep out of Lebanon's affairs

[Barrett808]

DAMASCUS (AFP) - US Middle East pointman William Burns told Syrian leaders to support Iraqi stability, stop meddling in Lebanon, pull their troops out of that country and crack down on violent groups operating in Syrian territory.

In blunt talks with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, which Burns termed "frank and detailed", the US envoy said the time had come for "genuine progress, not rhetoric" on Iraq and on Washington's other "concerns"

"If Syria takes action on these concerns, our relationship can take a very different course, with positive results for all sides," Burns said.

In a statement following the meeting the Syrian foreign ministry said Damascus "looks positively on the American envoy's insistance on cooperating with regard to Iraq."

The ministry described the meeting as a convergence of positions, during which "Syrian and American parties gave extreme priority and importance to the Iraq question," which was "examined in detail and monopolised discussions."

(more)

http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&u=/afp/20040911/pl_afp/syria_us&cid=1521&ncid=1480

[Mikimouse]

1. "Monopolised discussions"? What the heck does that mean...

I realize that it is part of the article, but is it a missed translation? If not, it would speak volumes about the true nature of these 'negotiations'.

[lovuian]

2. Syria has gotten its orders from World Boss Bush

better take the hint guys

[Gyre]

3. I guess it's ok for Israel to invade now and again

but Syria is dead meat if they stay there. Syria's actually a more plausible target for the US than Iran, who might actually shoot back. But a DOA Syria, hey now! And Ariel Sharon would then let bush give him oral, which we all know is what the chimp really desires.

Gyre