In an interview with Al-Modon, Speaker of Parliament Nabih Berri expressed his satisfaction with the visit of Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani to Lebanon, describing it as a “very positive” initiative, which established a new path of relations between the two countries based on mutual respect, cooperation and coordination, while preserving the sovereignty of both Lebanon and Syria. Berri praised the Syrian approach and Al-Shaibani, describing him as gentle, knowledgeable, and profound in his approach to the region’s issues, noting that the bilateral meeting included conveying a greeting from President Ahmed Al-Sharaa, and Berri responded in kind, while emphasizing his concern for Syria’s stability, unity, and role. Berri pointed out that Syria enjoys great diversity, stressing that the Syrian message emphasized solidarity with Lebanon in the face of the Israeli threat, and the importance of developing relations, controlling borders, combating smuggling, and enhancing economic cooperation. Berri revealed that President Al-Sharaa extended an invitation to him to visit Damascus, expressing his welcome, although the visit has been postponed for the time being due to the circumstances. Berri also praised the Syrian approach to developments in the situation in the region, considering that the concern is shared between Lebanon and Syria, and stressing that he did not sense from Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani any hatred towards Hezbollah, but rather words of high responsibility for Lebanon and all its components. He pointed out that Al-Shaibani expressed his readiness, as he stated after the meeting, to be open to communication or meetings with Hezbollah if the Lebanese and Syrian interests required it, stressing that Syria is open to all components in Lebanon and will not be in a position of siding with one party against another. The talks showed, according to Berri, the existence of a common concern between the two countries, which is confronting the Israeli threat, incursions and occupation, while emphasizing the need for coordination regarding these issues. Berri also stressed that the visit establishes a state-to-state relationship based on respect for sovereignty and non-interference in internal affairs, allowing for the development of cooperation and partnerships between the two countries. When asked about the framework agreement between Lebanon and Israel, Berri simply extended his hand to shake hands and said: “Compensation for your safety.” Berri believes that it is a strategic necessity for Lebanon due to its geography and long borders, considering that this path has no alternative. He confirms that Syria is Lebanon's "natural depth," noting that he told the Syrian Foreign Minister: "Either we all swim or we coordinate with each other," adding that if Lebanon refuses to coordinate with Syria, that means that the Lebanese have no choice but to swim in the sea. He also points out his historical relations with Syria, especially with Hafez al-Assad, as opposed to a less harmonious relationship with Bashar al-Assad, recalling his position of refusing to get involved in the Syrian war.