Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam arrived at Lebanon’s Parliament on Wednesday to launch non-binding consultations with parliamentary blocs.
However, Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri did not attend the parliamentary consultations at the scheduled time of 10 a.m.
MP Elias Bou Saab stated that he conveyed to Nawaf Salam that he had no specific demands, after his meeting with Prime Minister-designate as part of the parliamentary consultations
He described Salam’s approach as "unconventional" and emphasized the need for a logical, non-exclusionary way of thinking to resolve the current crisis.
Bou Saab further noted that both Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri and Salam do not require a mediator in their efforts to address the situation.
Sources told LBCI that it is almost certain that the parliamentary blocs of Hezbollah’s "Loyalty to Resistance" and Amal's "Development and Liberation" will not participate in the non-binding parliamentary consultations.
It will be replaced by an initial meeting between Speaker Berri and Prime Minister-designate Salam on Friday, with possible side meetings with members of both blocs.
Following their meeting with Nawaf Salam, the Change Alliance bloc expressed their preference for a government that is as small as possible, with a clear separation between parliamentary and ministerial roles.
They emphasized the importance of including women and new faces while avoiding political quotas, reiterating the need for a government that serves the nation without falling into partisan divisions.
MP Taymur Jumblatt stated that Lebanon is at a historic juncture, with a unique opportunity to build a state.
He emphasized that this was a key point discussed with Salam.
Jumblatt stressed the importance of communication and dialogue with all parties to achieve this goal.
He added that their single wish from all political parties is to reduce the pressures and demands in order to facilitate the formation of the government.
The Consultative Gathering bloc described the meeting with Salam as promising.
They emphasized the importance of political will to facilitate and ensure the success of both the presidency and the government.
The bloc noted that Salam is eager to engage with all parties and include everyone in the process.
In their turn, the National Moderation Bloc stated that the government must represent all of Lebanon’s components to be successful and effective in the creation of a new Lebanon.
They emphasized Salam's commitment to balanced development and stressed the importance of placing the right individuals in the right roles. The bloc also requested a specific ministerial portfolio.
MP Ali Hassan Khalil arrived briefly at Lebanon’s Parliament during the non-binding parliamentary consultations for government formation.
His visit coincided with the absence of Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri from the consultations, as he did not attend at the scheduled time.
Khalil left shortly after his arrival, raising speculation about the purpose of his brief appearance.
The Strong Lebanon Bloc stated that they have no specific demands and emphasized that the same standards should apply to everyone following the meeting.
They reiterated their rejection of exclusion, marginalization, or discrimination against any party.
The bloc stressed their role in ensuring fair dealings with all sides and highlighted their approach to fostering inclusivity.
They also noted their perspective on the nomination of Salam, underlining their commitment to equitable political engagement.
The Strong Republic Bloc emphasized the need to move away from national unity governments and return to democratic principles.
They stressed that the government should accurately reflect the representation of the Lebanese people, facilitating governance based on clear and balanced standards.
The bloc also expressed their ambition to begin building a "Third Republic," marking a shift towards greater reforms and accountability in Lebanon's political framework.
The Independent National Bloc, following their meeting with Salam during the parliamentary consultations, highlighted the need for a government of qualified professionals that aligns with the aspirations of the current phase.
The bloc stressed the wave of hope among the youth, stressing the importance of transforming this sentiment into trust in governance.
They pledged to do everything possible to support the success of the new government and the presidential term.