Neighbors form diplomatic ties

Syria recognized Lebanon's sovereignty for the first time yesterday, with President Bashar Assad issuing a decree establishing diplomatic relations and plans for an embassy in Beirut.

The US and Lebanese anti-Syrian politicians have long demanded Syria establish official relations with Lebanon. The two countries have not had formal diplomatic ties since they gained independence from France in the 1940s.

Lebanon and Syria agreed in August to establish ties and demarcate their contentious border. That landmark agreement, which came during an official visit by the Lebanese president to Damascus, and yesterday's formal decree reflect Syria's efforts to break with past isolationist policies, resolve tensions with its neighbors and create a more open image for the country.