Majority more than willing to hear out other parties
Samir Geagea, the leader of the Lebanese Forces, told a delegation from Kesrouwan that the situation in the Middle East was difficult and that the timing of the national dialogue, which President Michel Sleiman said would start on September 16, was sufficient to prevent any regional disturbances from influencing the political scene in Lebanon.
He said that Lebanese authorities, whatever their differences, should make every effort to discuss the national defense strategy in a serious manner.
Geagea said that the majority was more than willing to hear out other parties during the dialogue, and wanted to reach an agreement that protected the country from any external danger.
The main problem was that Hezbollah’s strategy extended beyond Lebanon’s borders, Geagea said.
He said the national dialogue should resemble parliamentary sessions and the discussions at Doha last May.
Geagea called for defining Lebanon’s approach to border demarcation, especially on the matter of Shebaa Farms, and clarifying the decision to establish diplomatic relations with Syria.
He also said that the national dialogue must address the issue of Palestinian weapons outside the refugee camps, which he said public opinion had already agreed on.