Mustaqbal Movement leader Saad Hariri affirmed to visiting Iranian ambassador Mohammed Reza Shibani that he is not against any state from establishing a relationship with one Lebanese political party or another "so long as this is not done at the expense" of either Beirut or Tehran.
"It is best for Iran to establish a relationship with the Lebanese state, and that all affairs are conducted via this relationship without hindering (Iran) from dealing with any party," Hariri said in remarks published Tuesday by the London-based daily al-Hayat.
At a meeting in Qoreitem on Monday, the Iranian ambassador expressed his satisfaction with the establishment of Lebanese-Syrian diplomatic relations and to the prevailing atmosphere in Lebanon in light of the ongoing reconciliations, al-Hayat reported.
Shibani was said to have conveyed to Hariri Iran”s support of the reconciliations and the Doha accord. The ambassador also reportedly said that his country is following a policy of openness towards all Lebanese parties.
"The establishment of diplomatic relations between Lebanon and Syria is an important accomplishment. It is best for both countries to maintain a state-to-state relationship," Hariri was quoted as telling Shibani.
"This should positively reflect on the interests of both states and people," Hariri concluded.