Lebanon's caretaker Energy Minister Walid Fiad stated at Rafic Hariri International Airport: "We are two or three months away from knowing the results of drilling and exploration in block number 9." He noted that "through maritime delimitation, Lebanon has maintained its rights to resources, and preparations are complete to start drilling in block 9." He expressed hope that "Lebanon will become an oil-producing country, and this will be a glimmer of hope for all Lebanese." Fiad concluded: "Total is optimistic about the presence of an oil block in the Qana field, and we are just a few steps away from exploration."