Urgent Need for Dialogue, Says Giraud from Serail

French Ambassador to Lebanon Anne Giraud stated that the deterioration of living conditions for Lebanese people "calls us to be able to respond to all their needs." After a meeting with caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati today at the government palace, Giraud announced that it was agreed that "the situation has become urgent and critical, and we must regain leadership based on constructive dialogue." She emphasized during the meeting the urgent need for dialogue, the smooth functioning of institutions, the election of a president, and the formation of a new government.