Saudi, Syrian leaders focus on Lebanon

DAMASCUS, Syria, Oct. 8 (UPI) -- The leaders of Saudi Arabia and Syria stressed the importance of forming a unity government in Lebanon following a landmark two-day summit in Damascus.

King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia wrapped up meetings with Syrian President Bashar Assad, marking the monarch's first visit to Syria since assuming power in 2005.

Both leaders addressed a wide range of issues, from repairing bilateral ties to the Israeli-Palestinian initiative and the political developments in Lebanon.

Ties between the two nations soured in the wake of a 2004 U.N. resolution calling on Hezbollah to disarm. Relations were further damaged following the 2005 assassination of Saudi ally and former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri, which some blame on Damascus.

Lebanese Prime Minister-designate Saad Hariri led his March 14 slate to power in June elections but has struggled to form a unity government amid political tensions with rivals in the March 8 opposition.

The official Syrian Arab News Agency reported both leaders stressed "the importance of promoting reconciliation … to serve the interest of Lebanon through forming a government of national unity as the cornerstone for the stability, unity and strength of Lebanon."

Analysts note the visit is a historic move for the region, with both countries holding considerable influence over a wide range of Arab affairs.

The leaders from both countries met in Riyadh earlier this year, with Saudi Arabia reinstating its ambassador in August.