Russia “is ready to make all effort to promote the peace process between the Arabs and Israel, Russian special presidential envoy in the Middle East and Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Saltanov said after the consultations in Damascus. Saltanov noted that he discussed “in detail and confidentially” with Syrian Foreign Minister Walid Mualem the situation in the region and prospects for resuming the peace talks.

“Russia and Syria share the position that mediating efforts should be intensified in order to give a fresh impetus to the Middle East settlement,” the high-ranking Russian diplomat said. According to Saltanov, his consultations in Damascus were also devoted “to further development and broadening of cooperation between two friendly countries in various spheres.”

On Monday, the Russian special presidential envoy will round off his visit, during which he visited Lebanon and Syria. In Beirut he will meet with speaker of the Lebanese parliament Nabih Berri and acting Prime Minister Fouad Siniora.