Arab decisions can be implemented without the need to isolate Syria, especially if it paves the way toward an unwanted international intervention

Lebanon President Michel Sleiman said on Sunday that Lebanon is against isolating Syria from the Arab League “because it punishes people and cuts dialogue [channels].”

While on a visit to the north of Lebanon escorted by Prime Minister Nagib Miqati, Sleiman said Arab decisions can be implemented without the need to isolate Syria, especially if it paves the way “toward an unwanted international intervention.”

Regarding the recent Arab league decision on Saturday concerning the Syrian situation and Lebanon’s stance, Sleiman said his country supports “democracy and transfer of power in all states including Syria and others.”

However, Sleiman added that Lebanon “does not favor achieving politics through violence and [this was the basis of] our stance on the Arab League initiative.”

The President voiced his hope that the Syrian regime would carry out reforms “quickly” and pull out army forces from Syrian streets in line with the Arab League proposal. However,

The Arab League on Saturday suspended Syria’s membership in the organization, and called for sanctions and transition talks with the opposition.