President of the National Dialogue Party, MP Fouad Makhzoumi, accompanied by his political adviser, Carol Zouein, visited Maronite Patriarch Cardinal Mar Bechara Boutros Al-Rai in Bkerke.
Following the meeting, Makhzoumi said that the visit was intended to extend congratulations to His Beatitude on the Christmas holidays and the New Year, expressing hope that the year ahead would be filled with goodness, love, and peace.
He also congratulated His Beatitude on the successful visit of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV to Lebanon, describing it as an important step, particularly at this difficult juncture. The visit reflected hope that the world has not abandoned, and will not abandon, Lebanon, which continues to receive attention from the international community, particularly the Vatican.
Makhzoumi stressed the need to implement the cessation of hostilities agreement between Lebanon and Israel, concluded on November 27, 2024. He noted that implementation was not proceeding at the required pace and emphasized the importance of fully implementing the agreement south of the Litani River before the end of the current year. He also underscored the need for a clear timetable for the withdrawal of Hezbollah’s weapons and those of all militias throughout Lebanese territory, with full transparency toward the Lebanese people and the international community regarding the implementation process.
Makhzoumi affirmed that what is required at this stage is the complete disarmament of these groups, with the state exercising sole decision-making authority throughout its territory and the Lebanese Army serving as the only armed force. Otherwise, Lebanon will be unable to attract investment, rebuild the country, or live in peace.
Makhzoumi and His Beatitude also discussed the importance of implementing reforms and holding parliamentary elections on schedule, reaffirming that Lebanon has embarked on a path of change for the next phase.
He emphasized the importance of enabling expatriates to participate in the elections, noting that he and several other MPs had submitted two draft laws: one to allow expatriates to vote from their countries of residence for all 128 members of Parliament, and another to lower the voting age to 18. Unfortunately, he said, the issue has been subject to continued delays.
He reiterated the need to hold the elections on schedule and categorically rejected any postponement.
Regarding financial reform and the financial gap law, Makhzoumi stressed that the Lebanese people, who have waited six years after their money was stolen, expect Parliament to pass legislation that meets their aspirations and is fair and equitable.