Hariri Arrives in Russia for Talks with Putin, Lavrov

Al-Mustaqbal movement leader ex-PM Saad Hariri arrived Tuesday evening in the Russian capital Moscow on an official visit.

Hariri will meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and a number of officials during his stay, his press office said.

“Talks will tackle the latest developments in Lebanon and the situations in the region, especially the events in Iraq, Syria and Yemen,” the press office added.

The ex-PM is accompanied by Deputy Speaker Farid Makari, ex-MPs Bassem al-Sabaa and Ghattas Khoury, and his adviser Nader Hariri.

Local newspapers reported on Monday that the former premier would tackle with Putin ways to safeguard Lebanon from the repercussions of regional developments as well as possible means to boost the Lebanese army's capabilities.

According to the reports, the two men would also touch on Hariri's recent visits to Washington, Ankara, Doha and his meeting with French President Francois Hollande in Riyadh.

The ex-premier will urge Putin to support Lebanon in its battle against terrorism and to facilitate the election of a new head of state, said the reports.

Y.R.