Specter visits Syria, says it wants peace talks with Israel

[NNN0LHI]

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/06361/749189-82.stm

Wednesday, December 27, 2006

By The Associated Press


DAMASCUS, Syria -- Syria's president wants to resume peace negotiations with Israel, U.S. Sen. Arlen Specter said yesterday after meeting with Bashar Assad.

"Assad stated an interest in negotiating with Israel to try to bring a peaceful settlement to the Syrian-Israeli dispute under the U.N. doctrine of land-for-peace," the Pennsylvania Republican said at a news conference at Damascus airport before leaving the country.

Mr. Specter, who visited Syria despite loud objections from the Bush administration, did not say what conditions Mr. Assad gave for restarting talks with the Israelis. Syrian officials were not available for comment.

Peace negotiations between the neighbors broke down in 2000. Syria has said it would resume negotiations but only within the framework of a comprehensive peace process.

[DoYouEverWonder]

1. I hope Specter

actually accomplishes some good for once in his life.