Lebanese Premier Hariri meets French president in Paris

By Hajer M'tiri

PARIS

Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri, who recently announced his resignation, arrived in Paris along with his family from Saudi Arabia on Saturday.

Hariri later met French President Emmanuel Macron at the Elysee palace. He was received "with the honors due to a prime minister", according to a French presidency statement.

Both leaders held talks before they were joined by their spouses and Hariri's eldest son for lunch.

Elysee said Macron earlier spoke on the phone with Lebanese President Michel Aoun, who "thanked him for the action of France in favor of Lebanon".

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Hariri confirmed he would go to Beirut to attend the National Day on Nov. 22.

"As for the political situation in Lebanon, I will go to Beirut in the next few days," he said, adding: "I will take part in the celebration of our independence day and it is there that I will make known my position on all the subjects after having spoken with the general, Michel Aoun."

Hariri thanked France and Macron.

"I thank Emmanuel Macron for his support. He has demonstrated an infallible friendship and that I will never forget," he said.

"France once again showed the greatness of its role in the world and the region; it has proven its attachment to Lebanon and its stability."

The Lebanese premier had abruptly announced his resignation on Nov. 4 during a televised address from Saudi Arabia, citing an alleged plot to assassinate him. Lebanese president is yet to accept his resignation.