Maronite Bishops Laud Dialogue between Rivals, Call for More Comprehensive Talks

The Maronite Bishops Council hailed on Wednesday efforts exerted by rival parties to resolve the ongoing disputes, saying that the country requires a more comprehensive dialogue that includes the national principles.

“Lebanon has no future if it remains taken hostage by the regional and local disputes,” the council said after it's monthly meeting in Bkirki, expressing hope that talks between the political arch-foes would be fruitful.

However, the council voiced fear that talks between rivals would only resolve the bilateral disputes.

“We are in dire need to launch a comprehensive dialogue that includes that national principles, which are included in the national pact and the constitution.”

Hizbullah and al-Mustaqbal movement agreed on Monday during their second dialogue session to support efforts to “continue the implementation of the security plan across all Lebanese regions,” revealing that they have made “progress” to defuse the Sunni-Shiite tensions.

The dialogue is being held under the auspices of Speaker Nabih Berri at his residence in Ain el-Tineh.

Dialogue had kicked off on December 23 between the two parties and the first session was aimed at devising a “roadmap” and a “mechanism” for the next sessions.

Preparations are also underway for a meeting between Free Patriotic Movement leader MP Michel Aoun and Lebanese Forces chief Samir Geagea to resolve points of contention between the old time rivalries.

The Maronite council also lashed out at lawmakers for failing anew to elect a new head of state, for the 16th time, calling on the MPs to carry out their constitutional duties and elect a president.

“As long as vacuum remain at the Baabda Palace, Lebanon will be more exposed,” the bishops added.

The council urged the cabinet to resolve the case of abducted soldiers and policemen, who were taken hostage by the al-Qaida-affiliate al-Nusra Front and the Islamic State group in August last year, renewing support to the country's security agencies.

Sixteen policemen and soldiers are still being held by al-Nusra while nine are in the captivity of the IS.

H.K.

D.A.