Abou Faour: Syrian ambassador has gone too far

Minister of Social Affairs, Wael Abou Faour, revealed Tuesday that Syrian ambassador to Lebanon has sent another letter accusing the Ministry of sabotaging relief aid for Syrian refugees, confirming that he will reply to said letter with the backing of the majority of cabinet and an affirmative stance from President Michel Sleiman.      

Abou Faour spoke to the press following a meeting with MP Bahia Hariri in Majdelyoun where they discussed further relief plans for Syrian and Palestinian refugees in the southern city of Sidon.       

"The majority of cabinet resents the statements of the Syrian ambassador," he said.      

"What I can confirm is that we do not need to stir further dispute around the issue of the displaced, this issue has forced itself upon Lebanon, just as it has forced itself onto Syrian and Palestinian refugees or displaced Palestinians from Syria. We need to deal with the issue with the logic of the state, not with the logic of tossing around responsibilities, nor that of stirring instincts and political campaigns."        

The Minister insisted that the Syrian ambassador has gone too far, adding that the state must act as a state in this matter in a manner that preserves the dignity and protection of displaced Palestinians and Syrians, while maintaining the sovereignty of Lebanon.