As part of his efforts to open up to the various political parties, the leader of the Progressive Socialist Party (PSP), Teymour Joumblatt, visited Batroun on Monday, where he was received by the leader of the Free Patriotic Movement (FPM), Gebran Bassil.

Discussions focused in particular on “ways to strengthen national unity” and enable “Lebanon to face the challenges on the domestic scene, as well as the dangers linked to the regional and international situation,” reads an FPM press release.

It said that the two parties also agreed on the need to adopt “a common approach to the war in Gaza.” Also on the agenda were the strengthening of relations between the two parties and the need to tackle issues through dialogue and understanding, “where possible,” and to elect a President of the Republic to rebuild power.

According to a source close to the PSP, the visit is not linked to the constitutional deadlines, but is part of the PSP leader’s efforts to build bridges with the various parties. He is due to receive a delegation of Lebanese Forces MPs tomorrow, Tuesday.