Ali Hails STL Funding, Says it’s a ‘Local Affair’

Syrian Ambassador to Lebanon Ali Abdul Karim Ali said on Thursday that paying Lebanon’s share of funds for the U.N.-backed court probing the murder of ex-Premier Rafik Hariri is a Lebanese affair, praising any effort that fortifies Lebanon against the Israeli threats.

“Concerning the STL, it’s a Lebanese affair… We bless any effort that strengthens Lebanon and stabilizes it,” Ali added after a meeting with ex-PM Omar Karami.

Asked about Lebanese-Syrian bilateral relations, Ali stated that the two countries are cooperating to halt the conspiracy against Syria, urging the authorities to halt any arms smuggling across the border.

“We hope (on the Lebanese authorities) to control the border to stop all smuggling operations, which undermine Syria’s stability,” he said.

The border area between Lebanon and Syria is separated only by mounds of earth and for long has been used to smuggle goods between the two countries, but since the Syrian turmoil began the illegal crossings have been used to smuggle arms, according to reports.

According to the National News Agency, Ali discussed with Karami the latest developments in the region.

Concerning the Arab League sanctions imposed on Syria, the ambassador warned that the sanctions will only affect the countries that will carry on with the Arab League decision, “especially the neighboring countries.”

“Lebanon, Iraq and Jordan understand this,” Ali said.

He noted that Syria will be able to overcome the crisis, saying: “We are relieved… Syria will be stronger than before due to the popular support in confronting this dangerous, fabricated conspiracy.”