With the arrival of French Presidential Envoy Jean-Yves Le Drian in Lebanon on Tuesday, communications have resumed between Free Patriotic Movement (FPM) MP Gebran Bassil and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri. MP Ghassan Atallah of the Strong Lebanon Parliamentary Bloc noted that the anticipated meeting with Berri was initially scheduled for the past few days. However, the crash and death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter accident and Berri’s subsequent trip to Tehran prevented it from happening.
According to sources closely monitoring these developments, the presidential dossier, particularly in light of Le Drian's visit and the recent statement by the Quintet Committee’s ambassadors (US, France, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Qatar), is the primary focus of ongoing discussions. The objective is to explore the possibility of establishing a common vision with President Berri and, through him, with Hezbollah, regarding both the presidential election and the candidate who could best represent this vision. While political and non-political exchanges are being considered by both sides, a comprehensive agreement has yet to be reached. It is noteworthy that the key point of convergence between the parties is the FPM’s openness to dialogue, a format required by House Speaker Nabih Berri.
Furthermore, alongside these communications, the Free Patriotic Movement is actively involved in the National Moderation Bloc’s initiative. While affirming its non-opposition to this initiative, the movement seeks additional clarification regarding the implementation mechanism. It is highlighted that Moderation Bloc MPs will discuss various scenarios for this mechanism with the French envoy.
Within the context of political and parliamentary collaboration between Aounists and Berri, President Berri allowed parliamentary committees to examine proposals brought forward by the FPM concerning the migration crisis, including a bill to regulate the legal status of Syrian migrants in Lebanon and a proposal for legislation organizing their temporary residency and repatriation. It seems that Berri has pledged to include them on the agenda of an upcoming general session, guaranteeing FPM participation and voting in favor of proposals and bids President Berri intends to adopt.
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