Lebanon does not want any interference in internal affairs, visiting Lebanese
Prime Minister Fuad Siniora told reporters in Moscow yesterday.
Lebanon wants to have perfect relations with Iran, but "we do not want
anybody to use Lebanon as an arena for fighting other states. Lebanon is our
homeland, it is not an arena for murders," Siniora was quoted by the Itar-Tass
news agency as saying.
"We hear statements from time to time, which show the wish to interfere in
our internal affairs. Certain politicians are recalling the times before the
Syrian pullout from Lebanon. I would like to stress once again that Lebanon is
an independent country," he said.
As for the relations with Syria, Siniora said, "Beirut wants open and fair
relations, which are targeted for mutual respect and friendship between Syrian
and Lebanese peoples."
Lebanon has not hostile relations with anyone but Israel, Siniora said.
"Lebanon is not a member of any conflicting blocs or groups. We are ready to
make friends with anyone ready to befriend Lebanon. We want to start
negotiations with our brothers in Iran and Syria," he said.
"At the same time, the Lebanese administration is determined to ensure
national interests," he said.
The problem of Hezbollah disarmament is an internal affair of Lebanon, which
is being resolved through dialog, Siniora said.
"We have always confirmed our loyalty to international resolutions, and have
been fulfilling them for years," he said. "However, I think that the problem of
Hezbollah disarmament is an internal affair, which is being resolved through
internal dialog."
A part of Lebanese territory was occupied, Siniora said. He called on Israel
"to leave the Lebanese territory and abide by all clauses of UN Security Council
resolution 1701."
"We seek the rapprochement of Lebanese forces and won't take steps that may
build up internal tensions," Siniora said.