EUROPEANS LIFT ARMS EMBARGO AGAINST SYRIA

The European Union today lifted an 8-year weapons sales embargo againstSyria-- a move that Israel immediately called a mistake. Foreign Ministers meeting in Brussels voted unanimously to lift the embargo -- put in place because of Syria's activities sponsoring terrorism. Diplomats said the move reflected the EU's view that Syria no longer supported terrorists. The move is part of a larger Western effort to improve relations with Damascus: Last month, for instance, President Clinton visited Damascus promoting peace efforts. Today, however, Israeli Foreign Minister Shimon Peres said the embargo should remain in place as long as Syria refuses to negotiate a peace pact with his country. Today, U.S. Secretary of State Warren Christopher announced a three-day Middle East trip next week in an effort to get Israel and Syria to reopen negotiations.Post your opinion on theInternationalbulletin board.