Mikati briefs his Italian counterpart on the situation in Lebanon

Prime Minister Najib Mikati held talks with his Italian counterpart Mario Monti in the presence of both the Lebanese and Italian delegations.  

Monti reiterated his support to Lebanon’s unity, independence, stability and sovereignty, condemning the assassination of Major General Wissam Hassan. He called on all parties to spare no effort to bring the perpetrators to justice.     

Monti hoped that political parties will respond to president Sleiman’s efforts to overcome the current crisis, pointing out that both him and Mikati discussed the situation in Syria whereby he voiced his support to the self-distancing policy adopted by the Lebanese government. “Lebanon remains a key pillar of stability in the region; Mikati is a model for political dialogue.”     

Monti stressed that Lebanon must respect its commitments “mainly international resolutions related to sovereignty and economic and commercial relations”.      

“We intend to promote these relations through adopting a bilateral statement drafted by Mohammad Chkeir and the President of the Milan Chamber of Commerce,” Monti said.    

In turn, Mikati said that his meeting with Monti was fruitful and led to understandings on all matters including bilateral relations and the UNIFIL’s participation and command. “We tackled the plan of the LAF and the necessity to help it fulfill its duties across Lebanese regions.”      

Mikati briefed Monti on the situation in Lebanon in regards to the large numbers of displaced Syrians and Lebanon’s need for the support of Italy, Europe and the international community. The two statesmen discussed Lebanon’s self-distancing policy as well as the Israeli-Arab conflict.


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