BEIRUT - Commenting on the decree issued on Tuesday by Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to open full diplomatic ties with Lebanon for the first time since independence 60 years ago, Prime Minister Fuad Siniora said in a statement : "Progress being made in terms of bilateral relations between Lebanon and Syria ... is a historic step forward on the road to affirm and solidify Lebanon's independence, sovereingty and free decision-making." 

He added that he hoped the move was "a prelude to a new page (in relations) that will benefit both Lebanon and Syria, having learned from lessons and experiences of the past."