NNA - Maronite Patriarch Cardinal Beshara Boutros Rahi met Friday at the Patriarchal edifice in Diman with care-taker Energy and Water Minister Gebran Bassil, who briefed him on the outcome of his developmental tour in Jibbeh and of the conditions of the Sacred Valley.


Separately, Rahi received in Bkirky U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Maura Connelly.


For his part, the Cardinal stressed on "The Role of the United States and the international community in support of peace and stability in the countries of the Middle East, especially in Lebanon, which is paying the price of the war in Syria and bears the burden of displaced Syrians, which exceeds its capacity," he added that "it is the duty of the international community to help Lebanon in this regard, and to work hard to stop wars in the region, especially in Syria, and preserve and protect the unique feature of Lebanon, which serves as a model in democracy, human rights and dialogue among all communities."


Rahi later met with MP Bahia Hariri who invited him for an Iftar at her residence. After the meeting, Hariri hoped that "the holidays bring forth stability and peace to Lebanon and the region."


MP Hadi Hobeish also had an audience with the Patriarch.


Rahi concluded his meetings today with caretaker Interior Minister Marwan Charbel. The two discussed public security in the country.


===============R.Z.