Naharnet

Suleiman to Make Important Revelations, Shrugs Off Accusations of Mandate Extension

President Michel Suleiman has said he would reveal over the weekend important details on efforts he is exerting along with the International Support Group for Lebanon to resolve Lebanon's political crisis.

“Something will happen in the New Year, the result of the efforts exerted by the International Support Group for Lebanon that was born in New York on the sidelines of the General Assembly session,” Suleiman said in remarks to An Nahar daily published on Monday.

The group undertook to work together to mobilize support for the sovereignty and state institutions of Lebanon and to highlight and promote efforts to assist the country where it was most affected by the Syrian crisis, including in respect of strengthening the capacity of the Lebanese Armed Forces, assistance to refugees, and structural and financial support to the government.

The president said had his critics known about his contacts with the international community and ways to salvage Lebanon they wouldn't have doubted that he was seeking to extend his term.

“They accuse me of seeking for extension but this is the last thing I think about whether they believe me or not,” Suleiman said.

The president's six-year mandate ends in May 2014 but there are fears that the March 8 and 14 camps would continue to boycott parliamentary sessions and not elect a new head of state.

Suleiman stressed that he would reveal the details of major developments and answer all questions during his meeting with the reporters of Baabda Palace on December 29.

“I welcome any criticism from any political party,” he said. “This means I am working.”


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