Sleiman reiterates need for intra-Lebanese dialogue

President Michel Sleiman stressed the need for intra-Lebanese dialogue in which a defense strategy would be the main topic of discussion, in a statement released by his press office. Sleiman said the presidential palace is “the place to discuss all proposals and express ideas and suggestions, while keeping in mind that the main topic is a national defense strategy, according to the original invitation for dialogue.” His comments came amid concerns that the March 14 coalition would not send representatives to Thursday’s session, slated to convene on Aug. 16 in Beiteddine. Former Prime Minister Fouad Siniora said Monday that discussions are ongoing among March 14 parties over whether or not whether to attend the meeting. “There are ongoing consultations among parties of the March 14 coalition, and I hope that everything will work out for the best,” Siniora told The Daily Star. “In principle, we support communication between all Lebanese groups,” added Siniora, who heads the Future Movement parliamentary bloc. March 14 boycotted the National Dialogue last month over Hezbollah’s unwillingness to discuss its arms, an issue the coalition argues is the only remaining item on the agenda of the talks. The alliance also demanded that Hezbollah lift its protection of those suspected of participating in attempted assassinations, in reference to Lebanese Forces head Samir Geagea and Batroun MP Butros Harb. From DailyStar