BEIRUT, Jan. 2 (Xinhua) -- Lebanon's Caretaker Economy Minister Raed Khoury insisted Wednesday that Lebanon should participate in Syria's reconstruction and benefit from this "huge opportunity", local media reported.

"We should take part in Syria's reconstruction which will witness the participation of all regional countries," Khoury was quoted by Akhbar Al Yawm local agency as saying.

Khoury noted that Lebanon should benefit from Syria's reconstruction, especially after Lebanon has paid "a big cost" as a result of the war in the neighboring country.

"Lebanon should not be excluded from reconstruction in Syria even if Syria fails to participate in Beirut Summit this month," he said.

Syrian Economy and Foreign Trade Minister Mohammad Samer Al Khalil announced last month that the priority in Syria's reconstruction will go to the Iranian public sector and private companies.