Saudi Envoy Says Riyadh Keen on Speedy Govt. Formation

W460

Saudi charge d'affaires in Lebanon Walid al-Bukhari on Monday denied allegations that the kingdom is obstructing the government formation process in Lebanon.

“The practical experience during the election of the parliament is the biggest answer. Some media outlets were betting on (Saudi) interference but it was proved that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was very keen on Lebanon's security and stability,” Bukhari said, in response to a reporter's question about the obstruction claims.

The kingdom “has stressed -- at international conferences and through all its platforms -- the importance of speeding up the formation of the government,” the envoy added.

He noted that some parties “were betting that the kingdom would interfere in the election of the parliament and the electoral law.”

“It has been proven that the kingdom did not interfere in this at all but quite the opposite... The kingdom was the only country that sought, in word and action, to respect Lebanon's sovereignty, security and stability,” Bukhari added.

“When the kingdom supports Lebanon in three major conferences, this indicates that this is the kingdom's approach,” the envoy went on to say.

PM-designate Saad Hariri, an ally of the kingdom, was tasked with forming a new government on May 24. His mission is being hampered by political wrangling over shares, especially over Christian and Druze representation. Some parties such as Hizbullah and the Free Patriotic Movement have suggested that some countries, especially Saudi Arabia, are behind the ongoing delay.

Comments 3
Thumb Southern......... 13 August 2018, 21:15

Walid, overthrow bani Saud regime, establish a decent state and form a govt... we know this can't be done without sacrifice, but it's worth it although half of the Saudi population could lose their life... once done, you would stop meddling in the Lebanese affairs.

Thumb justin 14 August 2018, 17:43

southern; do you think your shia iran need to establish a decent state?

Thumb EagleDawn 15 August 2018, 13:31

little southern, stfu and stick to this saying.... the fish dies by the mouth!
if you don't understand, back to school in qom, it's for free for iranian immigrants like you.