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(Undated-AP) -- Syria's deputy ambassador to the U-S says Secretary of State Colin Powell would be welcome in Damascus -- as Syria attempts to deflect U-S allegations of harboring Iraqi leaders and chemical weapons.
Imad Moustapha -- appearing on C-B-S's "The Early Show" -- said Syria doesn't want any more friction with the U-S, and is looking forward to possible discussions between Powell and President Bashar Assad.
Powell hasn't confirmed a date for a visit to the Syrian capital, but he's indicated the stop would be part of a broader trip also aimed at peacemaking between Israel and the Palestinians.
(Copyright 2003 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
