Lebanon’s new leader is visiting Syria in order to

Lebanon’s new prime minister is visiting Damascus for talks with Syrian leaders aimed at improving relations. Just a day earlier, the first government formed since Syria’s withdrawal from Lebanon won a vote of confidence in Parliament.
     Relations between Lebanon and Syria have been strained since Damascus bowed to international pressure, and ended its 29-year presence in Lebanon in April. Lebanese Prime Minister Fouad Siniora’s first official trip to Syria is a push to improve political, economic, and social stability in Lebanon.
     Syria has implemented a tight border crackdown. Hundreds of transport trucks line the road to Syria waiting for clearance to cross the border. The reported lock down has been in place for more than a month, taking a toll on Lebanese exports. Many of the trucks carrying produce have lost thousands of dollars in revenues as the items have spoiled from the heat.
     Many Lebanese claim the border crackdown is an attempt to strangle Lebanon’s economy. Syria says it is in response to international pressure to stop insurgents and militants from crossing into the country.
     Prime Minister Siniora’s government won 92 votes of confidence in the 128-member parliament, where an anti-Syrian coalition won a majority in June elections.