Hariri: Plots to sow sectarianism can be defeated through dialogue
Head of the Future Bloc in the Lebanese Parliament MP Saad Hariri appealed for dialogue among the Lebanese and said Muslim-Christian unity is crucial in the face of attempts to create instability in the country. He rejected sectarian provocations and threats of 'coups' to bring down the government.
Speaking at an iftar meal- marking the end of the fasting day of Ramadan- in Koreitem, in honor of families from the Achrafieh district of Beirut, head of the Future Bloc praised a recent statement by Maronite Bishops in which they warned against attempts to scuttle the creation of an international tribunal in Prime Minister Rafic Hariri's assassination case, through the formation of a new government. Hariri expressed confidence that the tribunal will be formed and that the perpetrators will be brought to justice.
Highlighting the legacy of the late leader's commitment to national unity, Hariri reiterated calls for internal dialogue, and said the assassinated Premier was also committed to the status of the Presidency, adding the post should be filled by the appropriate person. Commenting on reports that country could face 'storms' after the fasting month of Ramadan, head of the Future Bloc told the gathering the current government will remain in office, especially after Israel's military campaign, citing the majority support that Prime Minister Fouad Siniora's government enjoys in Parliament.
Asked about his relations with Hizbullah Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah, Hariri said there are no direct contacts between them so far, however he voiced respect for Nasrallah despite their political differences. He made clear that Lebanon has an opportunity to implement clauses in UN Security Council Resolution 1701, to put an end to all wars, and to diplomatically free detainees held by Israel and recover the occupied Shabaa Farms. He added that Israel will remain an enemy, but will be faced through a defense strategy based on national unity and a strong economy manifested in the success of the planned Beirut I international conference. He also urged Lebanese youths to have confidence in the country, citing his presence in Beirut and efforts to reconstruct Lebanon despite the late leader's killing.
In an open forum at the gathering, head of the Future Bloc stressed that the 1990 Taif Accord set clear rules for a Muslim-Christian partnership, and warned against rumors of possible rioting in Beirut saying security forces will take appropriate measures and that the impact will be negative especially on the perpetrators. Hariri said a plot to destroy Lebanon has been designed in some quarters of Damascus, but "there are political forces in the other side" that do not back activities such as rioting because they are aware of its negative consequences.