Mikati welcomes Pope’s visit, says is on good terms with Berri and Aoun

Prime Minister Najib Mikati said on Saturday that arguments that take place inside the government do not necessarily lead to its resignation, adding that his relationship with House Speaker Nabih Berri and Change and Reform bloc leader MP Michel Aoun is “excellent”.     

Following his closed meeting with Maronite Patriarch Beshara Rai at the summer residence of the Patriarch in Diman, Mikati said “my personal rapport with Berri is excellent; even if we disagree on something in the morning, we dine together in the evening; I am also on good terms with Aoun despite some obstacles”.       

Mikati stressed that he discussed with the Patriarch the necessity of preserving Lebanon’s unity, adding that he briefed him on some of the difficulties facing the Lebanese economy.       

“I visited Diman to thank Rai for his pro-government stances”, Mikati said, calling on all parties to abandon their personal interests and work hand in hand.       

Mikati dubbed the upcoming visit of Pope Benedict XVI to Lebanon as “pivotal”, adding that the Lebanese unanimously welcome this visit.     

On another note, the Premiere announced that the ranks and salaries system will be approved during the cabinet session expected to be held on September 5, adding that the “happy ending” is near in the case of the Lebanese abductees in Syria.       

For his part and following his closed meeting with Mikati, Patriarch Rai hoped that the government will succeed in is mission, pointing out that he is aware of the difficulties facing it. Rai considered that the Pope’s visit shows his strong support to Lebanon.   

Mikati thanked Rai for understanding the government’s work at this difficult time, adding that the Vatican confirmed to him that the Pope is visiting Lebanon no matter what happens.      

Mikati had arrived to Diman accompanied by State Miniater Ahmad Karami.