Berri, Miqati Seek to Strengthen Ties in 'Ordinary' Meeting

A meeting held between Speaker Nabih Berri and Prime Minister Najib Miqati was not “exceptional,” informed sources told al-Liwaa newspaper on Tuesday.

The sources said that the meeting in Ain al-Tineh on Monday was to reinforce the personal ties between the two officials, who tackled the general situation in the country.

Miqati told reporters that “no one should bet on a dispute between him and the speaker.”

In August, Berri and Miqati traded criticism after the head of AMAL movement accused the government of not exerting strong efforts to resolve the country’s turmoil.

Berri also lashed out at the prime minister for allegedly “not wanting to govern.”

But Miqati responded, saying: “Governing the country was never limited to the government.”

“As a partner, member of the government, and the head of the legislative authority in Lebanon, Berri is aware of the extent of the burden on my shoulders,” continued Miqati.

“I do not hesitate to take the right decision at the appropriate time,” he stressed.

However, Miqati said later that he enjoys “excellent ties” with the speaker.