Ambassadors meet Franjieh, Gemayel to advance presidential mission

On Wednesday, ambassadors from the five-nation group dedicated to resolving Lebanon’s political deadlock met with Marada leader Suleiman Franjieh in Bnashii and Kataeb leader Sami Gemayel in Bekfaya. These meetings are part of ongoing efforts to break the presidential stalemate that has plagued crisis-ridden Lebanon since the end of Michel Aoun’s presidency in October 2022. With no faction commanding a clear majority to elect a new president, the country remains in a precarious position.

The ambassadors had previously convened on Tuesday at the Egyptian envoy’s residence for a preparatory consultation and plan to engage with several parliamentary blocs throughout the week. The international community, including the five-nation group, has been vocal in urging Lebanese leaders to resolve the ongoing political and economic turmoil.

In an interview published on Wednesday in al-Joumhouria newspaper, Egyptian Ambassador Alaa Moussa emphasized the group’s focus on broader outcomes rather than procedural details. He mentioned that the intricacies of how the blocs convene and the terminology used for their meetings are less significant than progressing toward consensus.

Ambassador Moussa described his meeting with Gemayel as “constructive,” highlighting efforts to foster cooperation and trust among Lebanon’s political factions. He noted an encouraging trend, with common ground among the blocs gradually expanding.