DAMASCUS, Sept. 25 (Xinhua) -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad stressed Thursday that his country supports the Lebanese national dialogue and all that contribute to achieving national unity in the neighboring country.

    Assad made the remarks while meeting with Secretary General of Lebanese Communist Party Khaled Hadadeh, the official SANA news agency reported.

    The Syrian president expressed his hope that Lebanon's national dialogue would enhance unity of the country and preserve its security and stability.

    Hadadeh, for his part, appreciated Syria's stances on regional issues and President Assad's keenness on establishing good relations with Lebanon, SANA said.

    Lebanese President Michel Suleiman relaunched national dialogue between rival political leaders last week with an opening session participated by 14 political leaders.

    In his opening address, President Suleiman stressed that "frankness and reconciliation lead to the building of a strong state", calling for "sacrifices and concessions in favor of Lebanon."

    Lebanese rival leaders signed an accord in Doha in May, ending 18 months of political deadlock in the country and leading to the election of President Suleiman and the formation of a national unity government.