Lavrov Meets Jumblat, Expresses Support for Arab Initiative

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Tuesday called for the immediate election of a president in Lebanon in accordance with the Arab League plan.

 

“The restoration of national accord and finding a compromise solution, which takes into account the interests of all political forces, are the way out of the acute political crisis,” Lavrov said during a meeting with Progressive Social Party leader Walid Jumblat, who is visiting Moscow.

 

The 22-nation Arab League has proposed the election of Army Chief Gen. Michel Suleiman president, the formation of a national unity government in which no one party has veto power and the adoption of a new electoral law.

 

Lavrov said any foreign interference in Lebanon”s internal affairs was unacceptable, according to Russian news agency Novosti.

 

Jumblat also stressed, in an interview to Arabiya TV network following his meeting with Lavrov “on the importance of electing a president for Lebanon as soon as possible.”

 

Diplomatic “relations with Syria and electing a Lebanese president can safeguard Lebanon”s future,” he added.

Jumblat said he supports Russia”s initiative to convene a Middle East peace conference.