BASSIL RECEIVES CALL From Russian Counterpart Touching on Security and Stability in Lebanon

15 Jan 2019

Lebanon - Caretaker Minister of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants, Gebran Bassil, received a lengthy phone call from his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov, with talks touching on the issue of security in Lebanon and the importance of preserving stability without linking it to the issues of the region, especially in terms of the pending government formation.

The two also discussed the Syrian crisis, the necessity of embarking on a political solution, the importance of establishing the constitution-drafting committee, and the need not to link the return of Syrian refugees to Syria with any other matter, especially in light of the reports of attempts to discourage the displaced from returning, despite the good return conditions provided for many of them.

Lavrov hereby pledged Russia's constant support in terms of facilitating the repatriation process.

The reconstruction of Syria was also discussed, with focus on the important role that Lebanon can play in this regard.

Bassil and Lavrov also tackled bilateral relations, highlighting economic cooperation between the two countries and shedding light on the issue of religious freedom.

It was agreed that these matters should be pursued and the necessary executive frameworks should be put in place.