Syriac Maronite Patriarch al-Rai meets delegation of former deputies headed by Fouad Siniora

BETH KERKE, Lebanon — On Monday, Syriac Maronite Patriarch Mor Bechara Boutros al-Rai received a delegation of ministers and former deputies headed by former Prime Minister of Lebanon Fouad Siniora on Monday at the Patriarchal Edifice in Beth Kerke (Bkerke).

During the meeting, Siniora denounced illegal detention of Archbishop el-Hage and called for the resolution of this issue as soon as possible.

Regarding the delineation of the maritime borders between Lebanon and Israel, Siniora explained that there was hope for reaching a good end despite the attempts by some to divert attention from negotiations.

The meeting participants also stressed the importance of Beth Kerke, Dar al-Fatwa, and other religious and political authorities, in preserving the constitution, achieving peace in the country, and ensuring security and stability for Lebanon.

The delegation explained that their visit to the Patriarch is in support of the national path which he wishes for Lebanon.

The Patriarch has called for Lebanon to adopt a national policy of “Active Neutrality” in regional and international relations and has for the upcoming presidential elections to be held on time as stipulated by the constitution.

Holding the elections on time, Patriarch al-Rai has previously stated, will contribute to the restoration of a democratic parliamentary system, reinforce the principle of separation of powers, increase respect for the independence of the judiciary, and help to restore the Lebanese people’s faith in government.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the participants stressed the need to move forward with the rescue and recovery plan and to achieve real reform in all aspects as they are the only way to pull the country from crisis.