BEIJING, Feb. 21 -- Lebanon says it will cooperate with a UN commission of inquiry into the killing of former Prime Minister Rafiq Hariri, after earlier warnings that Beirut would snub the probe.

    Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri says President Emile Lahoud received a letter from UN Secretary General Kofi Annan on this subject and has replied on the basis of cooperation.

    He adds that cooperation with the UN is "in the interests of the Lebanese state and the truth will out within the framework of respect for its sovereignty."

    On the same day, the Lebanese government and 23 political parties and organizations urged the opposition to unconditionally carry out dialogue with the authorities.

    They also condemn the assassination of Rafiq Hariri, saying it seriously damaged national unity. 

(Source: CRIENGLISH.com)