By Scott Stearns , President Bush says he backs democratic forces in Lebanon and wants those responsible for the assassination of a former prime minister brought to justice.President Bush says the United States strongly supports a free, independent, and sovereign Lebanon, following the withdrawal of Syrian troops on the heels of popular protests last year.

"We took great joy in seeing the Cedar Revolution," said Mr. Bush. "We understand that the hundreds of thousands of people who took to the street to express their desire to be free required courage, and we support the desire of the people to have a government responsive to their needs and a government that is free, truly free."

The Syrian withdrawal was also prompted by international pressure following the assassination of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri, who opposed Syria's nearly 30-year presence in Lebanon. Initial investigations by U.N. officials point to Syrian involvement in his killing, an allegation the government in Damascus denies. President Bush again called for those responsible to be brought to justice. Standing with the president outside the White House, Prime Minister Siniora thanked him for his support for a full investigation, and says he is trying his best to maintain good relations with Syria, a neighbor with whom he says Lebanon has both a long history and a future.