Saudi FM Calls on Christians to Agree to Avert Political Crises

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Saud al-Faisal urged Christians in Lebanon to reach consensus and end their sharp differences to resolve the presidential deadlock and rectify the work of the state institutions.

According to An Nahar newspaper, al-Faisal made his statement during a meeting with Kataeb party MP Sami Gemayel, who traveled on Sunday night to Jeddah upon an invitation by the Saudi FM.

Al-Faisal also called on the Lebanese to agree on any compromise candidate to reach the Baabda Palace.

The two officials also discussed the kingdom's principles and point of view regarding the developments in the region and Lebanon.

The country has been without a president since the term of Michel Suleiman ended in May as the rival parties have failed so far to agree on a compromise candidate, which is threatening to thwart the upcoming parliamentary elections.

The crises are threatening further vacuum at Lebanese institutions, which could also impact the cabinet.

Sharp differences between the political arch-foes caused an impasse at the political scene in Lebanon. The March 14 alliance backs Lebanese Forces leader Samir Geagea, while the majority of the March 8 alliance supports Free Patriotic Movement chief MP Michel Aoun.

H.K.

G.K.