On 15 October 2008, Guardian Middle East editor Ian Black quoted AMW adviser Nadim Shehadi in an article entitled "Syria to open embassy in Beirut after historic decree":

"Although Syria's decision has been welcomed publicly, it is being 'treated with scepticism privately', said Nadim Shehadi, a Middle East expert at Chatham House, the international affairs thinktank."

...

"'The Syrians are making concessions that look like they are complying with the demands of the international community,' said Shehadi. 'It will make some difference but it's basically a PR exercise that will help the process of Syria's rehabilitation'."

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2008/oct/15/syria-lebanon