A joint meeting of the "Independent National" and "National Moderation" blocs was held today, Monday, at the office of MP Michel Mur, during which the latest political, national, and developmental developments were discussed. After the meeting, MP Mohammed Suleiman stated: "Continuing our discussions with the parliamentary blocs, we had a meeting today with the Independent National bloc to discuss the reopening of Qalayat Airport due to its national and developmental significance for Lebanon in general, and for the North Governorate in particular, especially given its great importance in light of the current economic conditions." He added: "Lebanon needs more than one airport, as Rafic Hariri International Airport is under significant pressure, and the opening of airports represents an economic and commercial outlet for everyone," noting that "our meeting with colleagues today was positive due to its economic and developmental importance, and our sessions will remain open in service of our regions and our country."
For his part, MP Michel Mur stated: "We first discussed the country's political situation in general, and the consultation was positive, and then we addressed the congestion at Rafic Hariri International Airport. From my parliamentary position, I see that creating an additional airport is necessary and essential to facilitate citizens' affairs." MP Tony Frangieh also expressed that "the North, unfortunately, is excluded from large developmental projects, knowing that Akkar serves as a reservoir for the army; therefore, Qalayat Airport can be considered more than necessary for Akkar and the North in general, acknowledging that Lebanon needs more than two airports." He emphasized "the necessity of overcoming the technical obstacles and various concerns facing the Qalayat Airport project." In response to a question, Frangieh pointed out that "the Syrian displacement issue has been approached incorrectly, creating a vertical division in the Lebanese public opinion, whereas it concerns all components of this country and should be treated urgently." He considered that "what happened in today's Cabinet session regarding the absence of some ministers is a dereliction of duties, especially as the Syrian displacement issue can be considered one of the most urgent topics." Frangieh called on "all political forces to bear their responsibilities, as the Syrian displacement issue has become an imminent threat to the economy and Lebanese identity."
Participating in the meeting from the "Independent National Bloc" were MPs Fares Hekal Khazin, William Tawk, Michel Mur, and Tony Frangieh, along with former Minister Youssef Saadeh. Participating from the "National Moderation Bloc" were MPs Walid Badrani, Saji Atyeh, Mohammed Suleiman, and former MP Hadi Habiche.
