DAMASCUS, Syria (AP) - Danish Foreign Minister Per Stig Moeller has praised indirect peace talks between Israel and Syria and Syria's decision to establish diplomatic relations with Lebanon.

Moeller held talks Sunday with Syrian President Bashar Assad and Foreign Minister Walid al-Moallem centering on the stalled Middle East peace process. He said his country encourages the steps taken by Syria toward Lebanon and the indirect negotiations with Israel.
Syria and Israel recently held four rounds of indirect talks, mediated by Turkey. But the talks made no significant headway, and Syria said a fifth round was postponed at Israel's request.
Syria has also announced the start of diplomatic relations with Lebanon.