NNA - Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Antioch and All the East, John X, received on Sunday Deputy Prime Minister, Tarek Mitri, at the Patriarchal Residence in Balamand. Driscussions touched on current issues and the general situation prevailing in the country.

The Patriarch expressed his hope that "the new government will bring prosperity to Lebanon" and stressed "the importance of its role in cooperating with the President of the Republic to advance the country and maintain its stability in light of the developments taking place in the region."

==========R.Sh.