Hariri hails Egypt for supporting Lebanese stability during Cairo talks

Saad Al-Hariri, who recently resigned as prime minister of Lebanon, hailed Egypt’s position in supporting Lebanon’s stability after speaking with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi in Cairo on Tuesday.

Al-Hariri sparked a crisis in Lebanon when he abruptly announced his resignation as prime minister while in Riyadh on 4 November, raising fears about his country’s stability.

“I’d like to thank Egypt and President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi for his support of Lebanon and its stability,” Al-Hariri said at a short press briefing following his meeting with Sisi, where they discussed the need to “distance Lebanon from regional policies.”

During the talks, Sisi stressed “the need for all parties in Lebanon to reach a consensus, elevate national interests and reject foreign interference in Lebanese internal affairs,” according to statement by the presidency.

Sisi also highlighted his country’s “full support for preserving Lebanon’s stability.”

Al-Hariri had announced his resignation in a televised broadcast from Saudi Arabia.

Al-Hariri left Cairo for Beirut shortly after the meeting. He said that he will celebrate Lebanon’s Independence Day on Wednesday, adding he would clarify his political position when he returns to Lebanon.

Also on Tuesday, Sisi received a telephone call from Lebanese President Michel Aoun, where they discussed bilateral ties and the political situation in Lebanon, Sisi’s office said in a statement late on Tuesday.

The two leaders affirmed “the importance of preserving stability in Lebanon as well as prioritising national interests,” while pledging to continue intensive coordination and consultation on the situation.

Al-Hariri flew to Cairo from Paris, where he held talks with French President Emmanuel Macron.

Al-Hariri’s resignation has not yet been approved by Lebanon’s president.

Source: Ahram online