He’s Coming

How can we be balanced in receiving the Syrian Foreign Minister?

Fine, we should begrudgingly try to open a new page with Syria. We should focus on our interests and not on our resentments..etc, but am I the only one who finds today’s Daily Star editorial troubling?

Syrian Foreign Minister Walid Moallem’s visit to Beirut today will represent an opportunity for Lebanese politicians to cultivate a friendship with a man who could prove to be an indispensable ally to their country. Moallem comes to Lebanon with a proven track record of overcoming monumental challenges: As foreign minister he has most recently overseen Damascus’ return from isolation at a time when it seemed as though Syria would never be able to regain its place in the international fold. Just as Syria has benefited from Moallem’s efforts, Lebanon can be reap the rewards of Moallem’s diplomatic prowess if Lebanese politicians use Monday’s visit to begin building an alliance with the Syrian minister.

What’s with all the groveling? We’re talking about a man who only last week threatened us with more violence if we don’t form a new government.

Really, what do you think our best attitude toward Mouallem should be?