This would of happened without Bush in office, right?
Will Syria's pullout herald in a new era of relations between neighbors?
Tuesday, March 08, 2005
Editorial
The announcement of Syria's plans to begin a pullout from Lebanon marks a historic turning point in the region - one that Syrian President Bashar Assad has taken. The move, while it falls short of the rapid and full withdrawal demanded by the international community, is a good first step toward establishing Lebanese sovereignty and independence. More importantly, the move will help repair any damaged ties between the Syrian and the Lebanese people and will foster a positive and balanced diplomatic relationship between the two countries.
If, as Assad has suggested, the Syrian people are angry that the Lebanese have shown no gratitude for their neighbor's tireless efforts to rebuild their country, perhaps they should acknowledge that the lack of gratitude stems from mistakes committed by Syrian agents and allies in Lebanon. For it was a series of grave errors that alienated so many people and inspired them to become members of the opposition.
But hopefully, mistakes such as these are behind us now. The Lebanese now look forward to a future in which they will have the right to run their own affairs according to their own agenda, unconfined by Syria's micromanagement, yet comfortable with renewed ties with their neighbor.
Regardless of international apprehension, this event opens a door to immense possibilities for change. That Assad has acknowledged and affirmed Lebanese calls for self-governance, especially in view of the opposing views of Hizbullah - a group which not only comprises a large segment of the population but also has broad support from all Lebanese parties across the political spectrum - is indeed honorable. And by doing so he has shown a willingness to embark along the path ahead toward a new era of democratic governance in this region.
Syria's newly announced measures should serve as a catalyst for new dialogue with the United States and Europe. Assad has taken a first step in choosing to reform Syrian policy; the international community must now help manifest and advance this reform.
We want very much to be optimistic now, although a long history of dark experiences tells us otherwise. For once, we want to believe that the words we are hearing and the opportunities ahead are real. The global village has as of late cast a spotlight on the region, and particularly on Lebanon and Syria. Under such unprecedented international media attention, it would be futile for Syria to try to simply maneuver to win more time. The Lebanese people and the international community will not tolerate another false dawn in Lebanese-Syrian relations. What we are hoping for, and what we see now, is a chance for a new beginning. |
