Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukri stressed Tuesday that Egypt is keen on keeping communications ongoing with all the Lebanese parties.
Shoukri’s remarks came in a press conference he held following his meeting with House Speaker Nabih Berri at his Ain el-Tineh residence.
He pointed out that Egypt is looking forward to play a positive role to help Lebanese leaders reach a settlement in terms of the presidential vacuum.
The FM then held talks with Foreign Affairs Minister Gebran Bassil at the Foreign Ministry, where discussions highlighted the importance of strengthening bilateral ties and means to increase cooperation between both countries.
As for the presidential file, Shoukri said, "We are seeking to facilitate talks, but it all depends on the will of the Lebanese parties.”
For his part, Bassil emphasized that Egypt represents an oasis of moderation.
Speaking of the refugee crisis, Bassil said that “the only solution for the refugees is to return to their homeland.”
He also stressed that the Arab countries should unite their efforts in the face of terror and extremism.
The Egyptian FM arrived in Lebanon Monday evening for a three-day official visit.
Shoukri was greeted at Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport by the Egyptian Ambassador to Lebanon Mohammad Badreddine Zayed.