Hariri: There is no controversial issue, and the pattern of interaction will change among Berri’s circles. The presidential merit is on schedule, and there is no urgency for the electoral law.
The Syrian Vice President, Mr. Abdel Halim Khaddam, and the Chief of Staff of the Syrian Army, General Hikmat Shihabi, successfully overcame the misunderstandings that characterized the relations between Presidents Nabih Berri and Rafiq Hariri. The marathon meetings between them, which are considered the longest since the beginning of their dispute, took place during their assumption of the two presidencies. The efforts began on Monday with President Berri and continued on Tuesday with both him and President Hariri. President Berri remained in Damascus, while President Hariri returned to Beirut and stayed for about three hours before leaving Lebanon. After his return from Damascus, President Hariri went to Baabda Palace, where he was briefed on the results of the consultations in Damascus regarding the controversial issues surrounding the satellite broadcasting project submitted to the Cabinet.
President Hariri stated, “We discussed all matters in depth, and our viewpoints were identical.” However, the Prime Minister did not disclose the specific topics discussed, but it was understood that most of the consultations focused on the presidential merit in light of its constitutional deadlines approaching on the 24th of this year. Things have been put back on track, and President Hariri’s circles anticipate that the results of the Damascus agreement between the heads of the executive and legislative authorities will be visible starting next week and in the coming months. It was agreed to address each topic in a timely manner. Before departing for France, Hariri met with Ministers Marwan Hamadeh and Fuad Siniora in Quraytem.
President Berri’s circles stated that the atmosphere was positive, and all matters and headlines concerning Lebanon were discussed during the Damascus meetings. The discussions covered various topics, including the economic situation, visual and audio media, the situation in the south, the presidential issue, and the electoral law.
