Hariri's visit to Damascus ends years of bitterness between Lebanon, Syria
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End of Syria's isolation
Syria's isolation was growing since Rafik Hariri's assassination, while Assad's speech led to more Arab political and economic pressure on Damascus.
But things began to change in July 2008, where leaders of 43 nations inaugurated "Union for the Mediterranean" in Paris, which was meant to bring Mediterranean countries together through practical projects.
The meeting was an opportunity for French President Nicolas Sarkozy to exercise more influence in the Middle East region, it also represented an end to the diplomatic isolation of the Syrian president.
Last October, Lebanon and Syria established diplomatic ties and exchanged ambassadors for the first time in history. The two moves, implemented weeks after the Paris meeting, were welcomed by the West and the Arab world.
Foreign officials resumed official trips to Syria, and the EU decided to restart its economic partnership agreement with Damascus, which was put on hold since Rafik Hariri's assassination.
"Syria is changing its foreign policy because it feels uneasy about its alliance with Iran. They want to diversify their foreign policy options. They are eager to improve their relations with the U.S. and relaunch the peace talks with the Israelis," says Khashan.
Saudi King Abdullah's last October meeting with Syrian President in Damascus, also helps to break Syria's isolation in the Arab world.
The Lebanese prime minister's visit to Syria is now seen as the final chapter of Syria's isolation.
"He waited until his cabinet won the vote of confidence in the parliament, which was facilitated by the Syrians. The Saudis urged the Syrians not to create hurdles before Hariri. They did not. Nowit is his turn to go there and pay his respects," said Khashan.
"Syria's influence is resurging in Lebanon, after it became clear to all Lebanese factions that Damascus cannot be antagonized. The Saudis are allowing the Syrians to do so, provided they distance themselves from Iran, which they are doing in an incremental way," added Khashan.
"It is doubtful that Saudi Arabia would welcome a return to a heavy-handed Syrian role in day-to-day Lebanese politics. Riyadh and Damascus can agree on encouraging Hariri to refocus on domestic governance issues that have long been neglected. In doing so, he can hope to insulate Lebanon from the broader regional tug-of-war," said Harling.
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