Quintet ambassadors meet with Berri, al-Rahi

On Monday, representatives from the United States, France, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Egypt, collectively known as the five-nation group supporting Lebanon, convened with Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri and Maronite Patriarch Beshara al-Rahi.

Berri described the discussions as positive and anticipated further meetings, highlighting a consensus on the necessity of reaching an understanding to elect a new president for Lebanon.

Egyptian Ambassador Alaa Moussa expressed optimism post-meeting, noting Berri’s openness to the proposals. Following discussions with al-Rahi, Moussa emphasized the significance of their conversation and the plan to engage with various political factions to outline a roadmap for presidential elections.

Moussa pointed out a recent shift towards flexibility among the political parties, which could potentially lead to the election of a president. This initiative aligns with the National Moderation parliamentary bloc’s proposal, introduced in February, advocating for parliamentary consultations and electoral sessions aimed at overcoming the deadlock.

The five-nation group’s efforts are set to include a meeting with Lebanon’s acting Prime Minister Najib Mikati, as reported by Asharq al-Awsat. Although the group is currently evaluating potential candidates, the focus remains on ensuring commitment from the political parties to advance discussions on nominations.

During their meeting, al-Rahi emphasized the importance of adhering to the constitution for the election process, viewing it as the most direct path to democracy, according to sources from Bkerki.

Lebanon has been in a presidential vacuum since Michel Aoun’s term concluded in October 2022, with the country’s major political factions, including Hezbollah and its adversaries, unable to secure the majority needed for election. Amidst ongoing political stalemate and economic crisis, the international community, alongside the five-nation group, continues to push for a resolution to Lebanon’s prolonged political and financial turmoil.