Germany's FM to press Syria, Lebanon to participate “constructively” in Mideast peace process

Germany's Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier said he was hopeful of a "fresh start" in the Middle East peace process thanks to new US engagement in the region as he arrived in Israel on Monday. "I will continue to press for Israel's difficult neighbors – in Syria and in Lebanon – to participate constructively in these efforts toward accepting a two-state solution. If that is successful, it will be to the advantage of all in the region." Steinmeier, kicking off a two-day tour of the region that will also take him to Syria and Lebanon, said Germany was throwing its weight behind the new US drive to bring Israelis and Palestinians back to the negotiating table and enlist the backing of "difficult" regional players. During his stop in Damascus on Tuesday, Steinmeier will hold talks with his Syrian counterpart, Walid... [read full story]                    

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