Faisal confirmed that the two parties had in-depth talks on Lebanon. We hoped that the Lebanese factions could reach naturalization of inter-relations, noting that compromise could not be reached under pressure. He called on Lebanese leaders and different parties to distance themselves from selfish goals and focus on their country's vital interests. In response to a question on reports that a Lebanese reconciliation meeting would be held in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Prince Saud Al-Faisal expressed surprise over the source of such news, stating that if they have set the ground for agreement, their meeting in Saudi Arabia would be welcome. "If their meeting in Saudi Arabia will lead to forging a solution that guarantees equilibrium, stability and development of Lebanon, that meeting is, no doubt, a source of welcome", he said. On Darfur, Prince Saud said Sudan is of course a beloved and basic country of the Arab League, citing continuous contacts by the Arab League Secretariat General in cooperation with the European Union and the African Union to find a solution of the crisis in Darfur. Such efforts receive our support, he said, adding that solution is not only possible but also a must. Prince Saud disclosed that Darfur crisis will be on the agenda of the Arab League ministerial council and the Arab summit in Riyadh as well. On his part, Solana said Sudan was receiving EU assistance over a long time as the EU was financing the African Union peacekeeping operations in Sudan and also taking part in peace negotiations among the warring parties. Even though they did not reach a solution yet, they have to continue and work for that end, Solana said, adding that the EU hopes that Sudan would accept the European Union forces that would be transferred into United Nations forces. We urge Sudan government to send a clear message to the United Nations accepting that offer, Solana said, adding that the EU would continue to finance the operations at this stage. --More
