NNA - President of the Republic, General Michel Sleiman, received a call shortly from General Security Chief, Major General Abbas Ibrahim, informing him that the plane carrying the 9 freed Lebanese is preparing for departure to Beirut.


In this context, Sleiman contacted Qatari Prince Sheikh Tamim ben Hamad, thanking him for all his efforts in ensuring the release of the 9 Lebanese who were kidnapped in A'zaz and arranging for their safe return to Lebanon.


It is to note that the President has delegated Caretaking Interior Minister Marwan Charbel to represent him in welcoming the released Lebanese upon their arrival at Beirut International Airport; in addition to arranging for the 2 freed Turkish pilots' return to their country.


Sleiman had earlier received a call from Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, congratulating him on the happy ending of the A'zaz kidnapped's case.


Sleiman, in turn, thanked Abbas for his efforts in ensuring said cheerful outcome.


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