Rahi Discusses Lebanon’s Crisis with Italian and French Ambassadors, Calls for Presidential Election.

Bkerki: Maronite Patriarch, Cardinal Mar Bechara Boutros al-Rahi, on Thursday received Italian Ambassador to Lebanon, Fabrizio Marcelli, at the patriarchal residence in Bkerki. They discussed the ongoing crisis in Lebanon. Marcelli noted that it was his second meeting with Patriarch al-Rahi following an initial visit six months ago and highlighted Rahi's recent trip to Rome for the canonization of the Massabki brothers. According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Marcelli stated that Lebanon's situation has worsened significantly, particularly with the war and issues surrounding displaced persons and shelters. The Italian diplomat emphasized the urgent need to elect a president to initiate a new course that will allow the country to emerge from this crisis. Following this, Patriarch al-Rahi met with French Ambassador Hervé Magro, who expressed France's continued commitment to supporting Lebanon amid its challenges. The meeting focused on the current situation in Lebanon, the efforts France is making to ass ist, and the outcomes of the recent Paris conference to support Lebanese sovereignty. Magro added that there is an agreement on the importance of sustained efforts to offer the Lebanese people hope for a better future. He stated that France is working to achieve a ceasefire and encourage Lebanese initiatives that can pave the way for a new chapter in Lebanon's history. France firmly believes that Patriarch Rai and the Maronite Church have a vital role in preparing a brighter future for Lebanon and its people. The French Ambassador also underscored the importance of aiding displaced individuals and finding solutions to protect Lebanon's educational system, which he described as critical to the country's future.