We have to be assured that Syria decided to deal with the kind of Lebanese Politicians who are free and who really represent their people and their nation. What prompted us to be frank with you is the presence of Emile Lahoud as a President, and what we hope his presence to bring a change in the Syrian-Lebanese relations. Furthermore what prompted us to be frank is you being responsible for the Lebanese file and the change we felt in the Syrian performance on the Lebanese arena since you adopted the responsibility of this file. People, Dr. Bachar, ask about Lebanon's future and the significance behind the presence of the Syrian army in Lebanon. They also ask if the price of peace is putting your hand on Lebanon for good.
People are afraid for their future and afraid for Lebanon's destiny and identity.
They believe that Syria did not recognize and will not recognize and does not want to recognize Lebanon as a free independent Country. They refuse the principle of pre-fabricated voting lists in Damascus and the 'blessing' that comes from above to be imposed on the people. People reject arresting Lebanese in Syrian prisons. People reject keepers. Yes, the Lebanese resent this policy, although it started to reduce when Lahoud became President and you received the responsibility of the Lebanese file.