Damascus, (SANA)-Member of the Russian-Arab Friendship Association at the Upper House of the Federal Assembly of Russia Alexander Dzasokhov said Syria has a pivotal role in the peace process in the Middle East.

The remarks came during a meeting on Tuesday with Speaker of the People's Assembly Mahmoud al-Abrash in Damascus. Both sides discussed means to develop parliamentary relations between Syria and Russia.

Al-Abrash said Syria is committed to promote bilateral relations and to continue parliamentary coordination at the international level.

Earlier, Assistant Regional Secretary of al-Baath Arab Socialist Party Mohammad Said Bkheitan discussed with Dzasokhov the Association's role in enhancing mutual communication. Bkheitan hailed al-Baath Party's ties with the United Russia Party and the Communist Party, along with their role in consolidating ties. H. Said /Manal Ismael/Idelbi