Suleiman Disavows Aoun's Bahrain Remarks, Reiterates Baabda Declaration Commitment

President Michel Suleiman called on Wednesday for the commitment to the Baabda Declaration, saying statements made by Lebanese politicians against Bahrain don't reflect the government's policy.

Addressing cabinet ministers during a session held at Baabda palace, Suleiman said: “We hold onto the best of ties with Bahrain and its government.”

The opinions of Lebanese politicians do not reflect those of the government, he said.

In the Baabda Declaration, rival March 8 and 14 alliance leaders have affirmed their commitment to the Taef Accord and agreed to distance Lebanon from the policy of regional and international conflicts.

Free Patriotic Movement leader Michel Aoun has recently criticized the international community and the Arab League for their lack of support for Bahraini protesters.

Bahrain's majority Shiites are seeking a greater political voice in the Sunni-ruled kingdom.

Bahrain summoned on Friday Lebanese charge d'affaires Ibrahim Assaf over Aoun's remarks after accusing him of meddling in its internal affairs.

However, Prime Minister Najib Miqati stressed on several occasions that the comments reflected Aoun's personal viewpoint and not that of the government.

During Wednesday's session, Suleiman also slammed a caricature of King Abdullah, urging Justice Minister Shakib Qortbawi to follow up the case.

Banners and fliers portraying Abdullah as the king of spades holding in his hand a sword stained with blood were hanged and distributed in two areas in Lebanon on Tuesday morning.

“This insult is totally rejected,” the president told the cabinet.