May 21, 2008

Both sides agree to commence talks under the Madrid Conference formula for bilateral efforts to lead to a comprehensive peace. This is the third time since Syrian and Israeli chiefs of staff meet in 1994/1995 where a declaration of principles is sought and details outlined between Israeli negotiators and the Syrian leadership. The talks resume episodically in December 1995/January 1996 and again in December 1999/January 2000. Like the previous times, five issues remain unresolved: the depth of Israeli withdrawal from the Golan Heights; the schedule and duration of withdrawal; stages of withdrawal; link between it and normalization of relations; and agreement over future security arrangements. This negotiation also ends inconclusively, however with considerable detail discussed.