Arslan, Marada Laud Berri's Initiative, Tashnag Calls for Dialogue without Preconditions

The Tashnag party announced on Wednesday its support for dialogue among the country's rival leaders without any preconditions, lauding an initiative launched by Speaker Nabih Berri.

Berri's roadmap is “positive like any other dialogue initiative” launched by him, Tashnag MP Hagop Pakradounian said after members of the speaker's parliamentary bloc visited the Tashnag headquarters.

Their visit is part of the meetings that Development and Liberation bloc MPs are holding with top leaders and heads of parliamentary blocs to brief them on Berri's initiative that is aimed at ending the country's political crisis.

Every aspect of the roadmap is linked to political, security and economic stability, said Pakradounian.

“These are important issues that should be discussed at the national level,” he said.

“The Tashnag backs any unconditional dialogue initiative,” the lawmaker said, adding “we hope the national dialogue committee would convene as soon as possible.”

The Development and Liberation bloc later met with Democratic Party leader MP Talal Arslan, who hailed Berri's initiative to end the political deadlock, saying: “We praise the major role he has been playing to end sharp division in Lebanon and that emerged in 2005.”

“Had it not been for the speaker, Lebanon would not have been able to overcome the dangers that it faced since then,” he remarked.

He has long sought to end differences between all political powers, he added.

“We endorse the initiative he launched on August 31 and I call on all parties against passing up this opportunity that Berri created in order to end the deadlock,” Arslan continued.

“It is no longer acceptable to allow any side to lead Lebanon to the abyss,” he declared.

Later on Wednesday, the delegation met with Marada Movement leader MP Suleiman Franjieh.

"The meeting was very positive and full support was expressed for the initiative of Speaker Nabih Berri," said a statement issued by Marada.

"We stress the importance of his role, especially during the crises that hit the country, as he always seeks to find the appropriate way out," the statement added.

Berri has called for a five-day conclave under President Michel Suleiman at Baabda palace to discuss the form and policy statement of the future cabinet, revive talks on a new electoral law, and support the military to deal with arms proliferated in several regions, in addition to addressing a national defense strategy, a reference to Hizbullah's controversial weapons.