Al-Rahi Hopes Saudi Grant to Army Will Pave Way to Lebanese Political Initiatives
Maronite Patriarch Beshara al-Rahi hailed on Wednesday Saudi Arabia's financial donation to the Lebanese army, hoping that it would pave the way to Lebanese political initiatives among the rival parties.
He said during new year mass: “We hope the donation will help lead to an understanding between the rival powers and to the formation of a new government.”
He congratulated the Lebanese state and army on the Saudi grant and President Michel Suleiman for keeping the state in high regard.
“We hope the initiative will help the political rivals make sacrifices and protect Lebanon in light of the impending presidential elections,” al-Rahi remarked.
Moreover, he praised President Michel Suleiman for his stances that are keen on safeguarding Lebanon.
“You took an oath of loyalty to the nation and constitution,” he added, while hoping that he will prevent the postponement of the presidential elections.
Suleiman's six-year term ends in May.
There are growing fears over the possibility of the postponement of the presidential elections given the sharp divisions among the political powers.
Suleiman announced on Sunday that Saudi Arabia has decided to donate three billion dollars with the aim of purchasing French weapons for the Lebanese army as soon as possible.
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