Political relaxation after the cabinet's decisions

Political relaxation was observed yesterday, after the cabinet's decisions during its last meeting. Sources of the leaders expressed, indeed, their satisfaction concerning the administrative and electoral laws ruled by the cabinet.

Prime Minister Rafik Hariri said, during the opening of the new Arab Cultural Forum yesterday, "Lebanon is facing grave challenges--I'm not saying dangers--as a result of the Israeli operations in the South." He added, however, that, "This large gathering in this small country is proof that Lebanon is regaining its health and a sign that Beirut will remain the cultural beacon of the Arab world."

Hariri is heading to Damascus at noon, before leaving for Japan in the evening.