[ad_1]
Published in:
Paris (AFP)
On Wednesday, France called on Lebanese politicians to “shoulder their responsibilities”, expressing their “regret” for not respecting the promises they made during President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to form a government “within 15 days”, as announced by the French presidency.
The Elysee Palace declared: “It is not too late: everyone should assume their responsibilities only for the good of Lebanon and allow” Prime Minister Mostafa Adib “to form a government that adapts to the gravity of the situation.”
“We are following the situation with interest and we continue our contacts with Lebanese officials to renew this urgent message,” the presidency said.
Macron confirmed, during a visit to Lebanon on September 1, that he had obtained political guarantees to form a government within 15 days, and explained that he expected a government supported by “all political parties” and capable of implementing reforms.
Since then, negotiations have been stalled by Mustafa Adeeb, the unknown former ambassador.
“We note today that they are not up to date today. France regrets that Lebanese politicians have not kept the promises they made to President Macron on September 1, according to the announced schedule,” added the Elysee.
The presidency stated that on that day, “all Lebanese politicians pledged that the rescue government could implement an urgent reform program that meets the needs of Lebanon and the aspirations of Lebanese and Lebanese women.”
In a multi-sectarian country where the same parties have dominated the political scene for decades, officials are used to lengthy negotiations to form a government.
According to Lebanese mediators, the formation of the government collides with the party to which the money bag will be entrusted, and the Shiite Amal Party demands the appointment of a “Shiite figure” in this position, which he has held since 2014.
Hezbollah, Amal and the Free Patriotic Movement have a majority in parliament. The three blocs had formed the government resigned after the bomb attack in the port of Beirut on 4 August.
© 2020 AFP
