10/12/2003 (Agence Europe) - European and Syrian negotiators announced on Tuesday in Damascus, that they had been able to complete their negotiations on an EU/Syrian association agreement and that the agreement should be signed in the first few months of 2004. Speaking on behalf of the Europeans, Christian Leffler, according to Reuters, explained that "we have covered all the areas… and have reached compromises and agreements in all areas". Asked about the possible imposition of US sanctions against Syria (accused of supporting anti-Israeli terrorism), Mr Leffler explained according to Reuters) that "We have negotiated a long term partnership”. According to the AFP agency, he also stated that “Syria has adopted a very positive and constructive attitude that will allow a development of an agenda for all political issue". EUROPE will be returning to this issue.