NNA - Marada Movement Leader, Sleiman Frangieh, along with MP Farid Haykal El-Khazen, and Bishop Estephan Frangieh, on Thursday visited in Bkerki Maronite Patriarch, Cardinal Mar Bechara Boutros al-Rahi, for a comprehensive discussion on Lebanon's current affairs, particularly the issue of the Lebanese presidency.
“The visit is characterized, as usual, by candor and clarity," Frangieh said on emerging, noting that "since Patriarch Bechara Boutros al-Rahi assumed the patriarchal throne, we have begun a relationship marked by mutual honesty, respect, and love.”
Responding to a question about boycotting Bkerki meetings, Frangieh said, "We've boycotted a committee meeting held under the auspices of Bkerki, not Bkerki itself. Every month, there are committees that meet, and we visited Bishop Najem and expressed our views, which he considered essential, but the ideas formulated in the document do not represent us."
Moreover, Frangieh emphasized his openness "to all dialogue," noting that "our political ideas resemble us, and we belong to this religious institution."
"We work for the security of Christians, not their intimidation. Their security lies in openness, not in fear," he added.
Franjieh further expressed his wish for the election of a president "today rather than tomorrow," but acknowledged the difference between wishes and reality.
"I do not see my nomination as undermining the democratic process of electing the president but rather affirming it. We are not prepared to erase ourselves, as we represent one hundred percent Lebanese parliamentary blocs from all sects, unlike others who have been suggested by some countries. We are supported by Christians much more than others,”Frangieh stated.
Regarding the absence of the Saudi ambassador from the visit to Bnachii, he said, "The absence of the Saudi ambassador from yesterday's meeting was due to health reasons, which is his right. Our house is open, especially to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and when he comes, he is welcome."
On the possibility of Speaker Berri withdrawing his nomination, Frangieh pointed out that "there is trust between him and his allies, unlike some who analyze according to their relationship with their allies."
“No president prefers the presence of ‘two weapons’, but everyone should engage in dialogue to agree on a strategy that leads to the unification of weapons,” Frangieh noted.
"I do what my conscience, Arabism, Christianity, and patriotism dictate,” Franjieh concluded.
===================R.H.
