Syria and Lebanon are close to reaching a judicial agreement concerning Syrian detainees in Lebanon, fugitives from Syrian justice, and Lebanese nationals in Syria, officials from both countries announced on Tuesday.
At a joint press conference in Beirut with Lebanese Justice Minister Adel Nassar and Deputy Prime Minister Tarek Mitri, Syrian Justice Minister Mazhar al-Wais stated that the two countries’ positions were “closely aligned,” and the discussions were proceeding within the correct legal framework.
Al-Wais clarified that the talks focused on judicial cooperation related to Syrian detainees in Lebanon, fugitives from Syrian justice, and Lebanese nationals in Syria. Special teams have been formed to investigate and pursue justice, he added.
Lebanese Justice Minister Nassar confirmed that “significant progress” has been made in drafting the legal text of the agreement. However, he emphasized that the agreement would not cover individuals involved in serious crimes such as murder or rape, whether committed against civilians or Lebanese military personnel.
Nassar said he had “constructive and positive” talks with the Syrian officials over the issues, underscoring both countries’ commitment to respecting the legal frameworks of the agreement, ensuring the sovereignty of Lebanon and Syria, and their shared desire for cooperation.
Meanwhile, Lebanese Deputy Prime Minister Tarek Mitri reaffirmed Lebanon’s political will to resolve the issue of detained Syrians in Lebanon. He added that minister al-Wais would visit Roumieh Prison today, as part of Syria’s right to meet its detained or convicted citizens abroad.
Mitri also revealed that around 2,300 Syrians are currently detained or serving sentences in Lebanon. Future meetings on this issue will take place alternately between Beirut and Damascus.
He further emphasized that Lebanese-Syrian relations extend beyond the judicial cooperation agreement on detainees, with ongoing discussions on border issues, refugees, and other matters.
A delegation from the Syrian Ministry of Justice, led by Minister al-Wais, arrived in Beirut on Tuesday to explore ways to support joint efforts in alleviating the plight of Syrian detainees in Lebanon and ensuring justice to protect their dignity and rights.
