DAMASCUS, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad asserted on Tuesday that achieving a just and comprehensive peace is "the only way" for the establishment of security and stability in the region which subsequently reflects positively on the whole world.

    Assad made the remarks while meeting with visiting British Foreign Secretary David Miliband, in which they exchanged views on the peace process in the region and the indirect peace talks between Syria and Israel, the official SANA news agency reported.

    "The peace process in the region needs seriousness on the part of Israel, an honest sponsor and an active European role, as well as concerted international efforts," Assad was quoted as saying.

    Miliband expressed his country's "high appreciation" of Syria's important and positive role and its efforts for the establishment of peace and stability in the region, SANA said.

    The top British diplomat also stressed London's support to the indirect talks between Syria and Israel, saying Britain welcomes the progress made in this field and hopes that these talks will continue as part of a comprehensive peace in the region.

    The two sides also discussed developments in the region, particularly in the Palestinian territories, Iraq and Lebanon, in addition to Syrian-British relations.

    They underlined the necessity to continue consultation and cooperation between the two friendly countries on issues of common interest and on the basis of joint benefits for both people, SANA said.

    Miliband arrived here Monday evening after his trips to Israel and the Palestinian territories.

    This is the first high-level visit by British officials since the 2005 murder in Beirut of Lebanon's former premier Rafik Haririin which Damascus has denied charges of involvement.