Abou Faour Says Franjieh's Nomination 'Best Available Opportunity'

Health Minister Wael Abou Faour on Wednesday described the proposed presidential settlement that involves the nomination of MP Suleiman Franjieh as the "best available opportunity" to end the political impasse in the country.

“Franjieh's Maronite representation does not need recognition from anyone and he is one of the four strong candidates, which should create a positive atmosphere in the Christian arena,” Abou Faour, who is close to Druze leader MP Walid Jumblat, said.

He voiced his remarks after talks with Speaker Nabih Berri in Ain al-Tineh.

“Franjieh's nomination is the best available opportunity today, so why don't we seize it?” the minister suggested.

He also noted that the proposed settlement does not involve the 1960 law for parliamentary polls but rather a “national unity government.”

His remarks come in the wake of a Paris meeting between Franjieh and al-Mustaqbal movement chief ex-PM Saad Hariri that has sparked intense speculation that they agreed to Franjieh's nomination for the presidency.

Hariri has also held talks in Paris with Jumblat and Kataeb Party leader MP Sami Gemayel.