For Immediate Release Contact:
Mark Kitchens, 202-464-2800
September 2, 2004
Statement by John Kerry on Syrian Interference in Lebanon
Senator John Kerry released the following statement today:
“I strongly support the new UN Security Council resolution calling for the immediate withdrawal of Syrian troops from Lebanon, free and fair elections without interference from Syria, and the disbanding of all armed militias. At a time when the Lebanese people are trying to come together and heal the wounds of years of civil war, it is especially important to protect the independence of Lebanon and bolster public confidence in the sanctity of the constitution. Syrian interference in Lebanese affairs is unacceptable, and only serves to reverse some of the modest steps Lebanon has taken to rebuild itself and its state institutions.
“Like all people in the Middle East and around the world, the Lebanese people are entitled to a life of liberty and peace, free of external dominance and terrorism. We should work to restore the confidence of the many in the region who share our values and have lost faith in our intentions over the past four years. By leading the effort to allow Lebanon to realize these aims and energizing our attempts to spread peace and democracy in the region, we can take an important step in this direction.”