NNA - Maronite Patriarch Bechara Al-Rahi met with Kataeb MP Salim Sayegh at the patriarchal seat in Bkerke on Tuesday, where they discussed key national issues.

Following the meeting, Sayegh stressed the importance of advancing a series of long-delayed appointments within the Lebanese State. He underscored the necessity of these appointments to ensure the smooth functioning of the state and the stability of its institutions.

On the ongoing tensions at the Lebanese-Syrian border, Sayegh described the situation as an attempt to destabilize the internal Lebanese scene. He argued that these developments were part of a broader strategy to manipulate the region and advance external agendas within the framework of larger international negotiations.

"The time has come to stop involving the Lebanese Army in side conflicts. It is crucial to enforce UN Resolution 1701, starting from the south," Sayegh stressed, highlighting the urgent need for Lebanon to prioritize its sovereignty and avoid unnecessary entanglements.

Sayegh also addressed the recent meeting between Kataeb Party leader Samy Gemayel and Speaker of Parliament Nabih Berri's in Ain El-Tineh. He clarified that Gemayel put forward proposals aimed at resolving the ongoing disputes over Christian representation in Beirut’s municipal elections.

"Gemayel brought ideas to Speaker Berri and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam to address the issue of Christian representation through a parity system—12 seats for Christians and 12 for Muslims," Sayegh explained.

 He emphasized that Beirut should not become an obstacle to the timely conduct of municipal elections, underscoring the need for a fair and balanced representation that would prevent delays. -- Kataeb.org

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