Hariri in Beirut Soon Amid Syrian Criticism to PM-designate, Sfeir
Premier-designate Saad Hariri is expected to return to Beirut on Monday, a day after Syria”s al-Baath newspaper criticized the Mustaqbal movement leader and Maronite Patriarch Nasrallah Sfeir.
Hariri”s close circles told As Safir that the PM-designate is keen on giving dialogue a new chance to reach consensus on a formula acceptable by all sides. They added that Hariri, upon his return to Lebanon, will start a new round of consultations with the opposition, including Aoun, if the FPM leader was responsive.
MP Antoine Zahra also told Voice of Lebanon radio on Monday that the premier-designate will make a new suggestion to all parties upon his return to Beirut.
Zahra said that Hariri has already consulted several opposition forces on his new plan which is still based on the 15-10-5 formula.
Majority sources, meanwhile, criticized al-Baath which slammed Hariri and Sfeir on Sunday. The sources said the daily”s report indicates the Syrian regime”s attempt to obstruct government formation in Lebanon.
Al-Baath also said that there are Egyptian-Saudi efforts to keep the caretaking cabinet headed by Premier Fouad Saniora. The newspaper stressed that Cairo wants to reappoint Saniora.