Ambassador of Ukraine Volodymyr Koval took part in the traditional reception on the occasion of Christmas and the New Year, hosted by President of the Lebanese Republic General Michel Sleiman for heads of foreign diplomatic missions and agencies of international organizations based in Lebanon.

Addressing the attendees the head of state said Lebanon has been able to preserve its stability despite regional tensions, and avoid the repercussions of the global financial crisis. The president underscored his intention to continue efforts for the resumption of the all-party conference of national dialogue and agreeing on defence strategy.

Turning to Syria, Sleiman stressed that Lebanon has an interest in finding a political solution to the crisis in the country. He reiterated Lebanon’s rejection of naturalization of Palestinians living in the country and voiced in favour of the return to their homeland.