Miqati to GCC Diplomats: Lebanon Keen on Best of Ties with Arab Countries

Prime Minister Najib Miqati reiterated on Thursday that Lebanon is keen on the best of relations with Arab countries and rejects meddling in their internal affairs.

During a meeting with a delegation of diplomats from Gulf Cooperation Council countries at the Grand Serail, Miqati stressed “the best of ties with the friendly Arab countries and mainly GCC states.”

He said that he and President Michel Suleiman reiterated during a cabinet session held on Wednesday the non-interference in their local affairs.

“The Lebanese government confirms that statements made by politicians don't reflect the viewpoint of the cabinet,” he told the ambassadors of Qatar, Sultanate of Oman and Kuwait, and the UAE charge d'affaires.

The government urges Lebanese leaders to abide by the Baabda Declaration in which the country's rival politicians have vowed to distance Lebanon from the policy of regional and international conflicts.

Miqati's remarks came against the backdrop of a crisis that erupted last week after Free Patriotic Movement leader Michel Aoun 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.

Aoun's criticism prompted Bahrain to summon Lebanese charge d'affaires Ibrahim Assaf after accusing the FPM chief of meddling in its internal affairs.

“Lebanon will continue to have friendly ties with Gulf countries,” Miqati said, adding “the absolute majority of the Lebanese laud their continued support for Lebanon.”