Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati expressed to Pope Francis his attachment “to coexistence and to Lebanon’s role as a message in the region, as well as to the Christian presence, which is a guarantee for the unity of Lebanon, land and people.”
Mikati and the Pontiff also tackled a number of current topics pertaining to Lebanon and the region during a 30-minute private Vatican meeting on Friday.
The prime minister affirmed that the presidency of the Republic “represents a national event in which all components of Lebanese society participate,” adding that it is “not just a Christian matter.”
He also discussed the need to put pressure on Israel to expedite its withdrawal from Lebanese territory “in accordance with the ceasefire agreement” and find a solution to the problem of Lebanese detainees.
Furthermore, Mikati reiterated his wish to welcome Pope Francis in Lebanon, describing the visit as “a source of hope and comfort for the Lebanese people.”
As for the latest developments in Syria, he reiterated his wishes for “stability and unity.”
Later, Mikati met the Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who emphasized that “Lebanon is receiving special attention from the Holy See.”
The cardinal also conveyed the hope that the president-elect will be able to unite the Lebanese under the Constitution and that the presidential election will proceed as planned.
“The Vatican will do everything in its power to support Lebanon in international forums,” he concluded.
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