Syrian President Bashar al-Assad received on Wednesday a delegation from the Lebanese caretaker government, led by Foreign Affairs Minister Abdallah Bou Habib, joined by Public Works Minister Ali Hamieh, Social Affairs Minister Hector Hajjar, and Agriculture Minister Abbas Hajj Hasan.

The delegation extended the condolences and solidarity of the caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati and other members of the government over the devastating earthquake that struck Syria. They emphasized that the visit was a demonstration of the Lebanese people’s commitment to standing in solidarity with their Syrian counterparts during this difficult time.

The delegation also updated President al-Assad on the measures and decisions taken by the caretaker government to provide assistance and coordinate with Syrian organizations engaged in rescue and relief efforts. They emphasized Lebanon’s willingness to open its airports and ports to receive aid from any country bound for Syria.

President al-Assad expressed his gratitude for the actions taken by the Lebanese government to offer and facilitate aid delivery to Syria, acknowledging that it has made a practical impact and boosted morale among the Syrian people.

The President emphasized the importance of cooperation between Lebanon and Syria in all areas, given the shared capabilities and common interests of the two countries.

In a separate interview, Agriculture Minister Abbas Hajj Hasan told Al-Manar TV that the Lebanese delegation brought with them ‘humanitarian support’ for Syria, noting that the country, in turn, has always been supportive of Lebanon.

He suggested that the earthquake crisis could serve as an opportunity to repair and strengthen Lebanese-Syrian and Syrian-Arab ties.

Source: SANA