WASHINGTON -President Obama, intent on thawing the United States' diplomatic freeze with Syria,has named a career diplomat as his nominee to ambassador to the Middle Eastern country. President Bush removed the last U.S. ambassador to Syria in 2005 in protest over speculation that the country was involved in the assassination of Lebanese Prime Minister Rafiq Hariri. The investigation into Hariri's death continues.Obama said Tuesday he would nominate Robert Ford to ambassador to Syria, which borders both Iraq and Israel."Ambassador Ford is a highly accomplished diplomat with many years of experience in the Middle East," White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said. "His appointment represents President Obama's commitment to use engagement to advance U.S. interests by improving communication with the Syrian government and people"....Obama Announces First Ambassador to Syria Since 2005
WASHINGTON -President Obama, intent on thawing the United States' diplomatic freeze with Syria,has named a career diplomat as his nominee to ambassador to the Middle Eastern country. President Bush removed the last U.S. ambassador to Syria in 2005 in protest over speculation that the country was involved in the assassination of Lebanese Prime Minister Rafiq Hariri. The investigation into Hariri's death continues.Obama said Tuesday he would nominate Robert Ford to ambassador to Syria, which borders both Iraq and Israel."Ambassador Ford is a highly accomplished diplomat with many years of experience in the Middle East," White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said. "His appointment represents President Obama's commitment to use engagement to advance U.S. interests by improving communication with the Syrian government and people"....