June 18, 2009 - 20:05 AMT
Nation's right to self-determination - decisive moment in conflict settlement
We take pride in Syrian-Armenians who play invaluable role in the country's life, especially in art, music, medicine, crafts and other spheres, Syrian Presdient Bashar al-Asad said during solemn supper with his Armenian colleague Serzh Sargsyan. According to Syrian official, such inseparable intersection of cultures is a response to the thoughts, ideologies and racist movements that led to the splitting of civilizations, cultures, religions and nations. And that in turn, caused destabilization in different parts of world, in particular, in Near East, Caucasus and Asia.
Such unilateral and irresponsible policy led to wars and conflicts unacceptable by people after long struggle for justice, equality and nations' right to self-determination, Syrian president said. Armenian-Syrian relations, according to al-Asad, are based on century-old traditions. "The talks conducted today have confirmed that bilateral relations will develop further, considering the interests of both nations and two regions. We hope for joint work aimed at establishing peace, security and stability in Near East, Caucasus and Central Asia, since situation in those regions affects global security and stability. We are sure that respect for people's right to self-determination, as well as international laws and legal will based on mutual understanding will create the background required for settling all kinds of conflicts and crises," he noted. Bashar al-Asad also welcomed the positive steps aimed at Armenian-Turkish ties normalization and expressed willingness to assist in the process.