Federal Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier has appealed to Syria to help make the Middle East peace process a success.

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Foreign Minister Steinmeier met with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in Damascus.

(© dpa/picture-alliance)

Following his talks with President Bashar Assad, he warned that "only a regional peace settlement" will bring stability in the Middle East. Such a settlement, however, would have to be achieved within a short time frame.

Steinmeier reaffirmed in Damascus his view that US President Obama's engagement had created new momentum, but pointed out that preparatory talks could not drag on for years. "The opportunities that now exist must be seized this year."

His Syrian opposite number Walid Mu'allim agreed that Obama had taken positive steps and the time frame was tight. However, Syria wanted first to resolve the Golan issue with Israel. Then it would be possible to discuss how to take things forward in other areas. Syria wanted the Golan Heights back: "That's not a condition, that's our right."

Clear-cut interests

Steinmeier is convinced that "Syria has an objective interest in the success of the Middle East peace process." In Israel, too, he had found a willingness in principle to talk to Syria.

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Foreign Minister Steinmeier and Syrian Foreign Minister Walid al-Mu'allim

(© photothek.net; by T.Imo)

Basically both countries' interests were clear-cut, he noted. Syria wanted the return of territory the Syrians regarded as belonging to them. For the Israelis security was the issue.

What was crucial in any case was to minimize the influence of "disruptive elements". There was no denying, for example, that violence was masterminded by Hamas and Hezbollah. "That's why these issues should be on the agenda of the talks that hopefully will take place also between Syria and Israel," Steinmeier argued.

Mu'allim explained that Syria remained willing to talk, but wanted first of all to conclude the discussions – currently suspended – that had been taking place with Turkish mediation and then seek a new format.

Support for national dialogue in Lebanon

During his talks in Lebanon on the final leg of his trip Steinmeier called for the national dialogue to continue. Following his talks with Prime Minister-designate Saad Hariri, he noted that "the process of forming a government has now begun. I hope you will find supporters for your ambitious program. And I hope, too, that the national dialogue talks continue."