Suleiman Hopes Ministerial Policy Statement Will be Achieved before Independence Day Eve
President Michel Suleiman hoped, during a foundation stone-laying ceremony for al-Yammouneh water dam project, to "accomplish the cabinet”s Policy Statement on the eve of Independence Day", adding that "this Policy Statement portrays the policy of the state in the coming stage and elevates its impact internationally."
The president added that the ministerial Policy Statement would lower the curtain on the past”s lean years so that the country would become prosperous, hale, and terror-defiant like a "fortress".
Suleiman stressed that Lebanon should be keen on benefiting from its water, whether in the South or Beqaa. The president avowed that "Lebanon was seeking through all of its capabilities to claim compensations for the losses during the Israeli occupation days that had witnessed the stealing of its (Lebanon”s) water."
Earlier, reports said that Suleiman would invite political leaders to the national dialogue table based on "new standards" after the cabinet gets parliament”s vote of confidence.
Sources told An Nahar daily that Suleiman began seriously thinking about the names of political leaders and representatives who would meet at Baabda palace.
The sources warned that the expansion of the all-party talks” authorities could clash with the government”s constitutional powers.
Al-Liwaa newspaper, in its turn, quoted informed sources as saying the national dialogue will not be held for the time being because its agenda requires consensus.
The sources said the agenda will not only include the defense strategy. The leaders will discuss in addition to Hizbullah”s arms, Suleiman”s suggestion to amend the presidency”s authorities and economic reforms.