Hariri Urges Trump to 'Advance Peace', Find 'Political Solution to Syrian Crisis'

Prime Minister-designate Saad Hariri on Wednesday congratulated Donald Trump on his election as the 45th president of the United States, urging him to “advance the cause of peace” and find a “peaceful political solution to the Syrian crisis.”

“Your victory is a testament to your leadership and reflects the high confidence and hopes you instill in the American people. It is indeed a resounding victory to American democracy,” Hariri said in a letter to Trump.

“The Middle East is facing daunting challenges and your leadership is indispensable for attaining a stable, secure and peaceful region. You will find in Lebanon a committed partner as you 'seek common ground, not hostility, partnership, not conflict',” Hariri added, using a phrase from Trump's victory speech.

Noting that Lebanon paid a heavy price due to “conflict and war,” the PM-designate pointed out that the Lebanese “are now working hard to set an example of partnership and coexistence in the region.”

“We count very much on your support to advance the cause of peace, security, stability and democracy in our beleaguered region, starting with a peaceful political solution to the Syrian crisis,” Hariri went on to say.

“It is a new era in Lebanon. It is a new era in the United States of America. As I look forward to cooperating with you, I wish you success in all your endeavors,” he told Trump.

Addressing Americans and the world after his stunning victory, Trump said: “I want to tell the world community that while we will always put America first, we will deal fairly with everyone – with everyone, all people, all nations.”

“We will seek common ground, not hostility, partnership, not conflict,” he added.