French President Emmanuel Macron held talks Saturday with Prime Minister Saad Hariri at the Elysee Palace on the situation in Lebanon and the region, and bilateral relations.

After the meeting, Premier Hariri told journalists, in French: "I thank President Emmanuel Macron for his support. He has shown an infallible friendship and I will never forget this. France has once again demonstrated its great role in the world and the region. It proves its attachment to Lebanon and its stability. For all that, I reiterate my thanks to President Macron, and to France."

"As for the political situation in Lebanon, I will be going to Beirut in the next few days. I will participate in the celebration of our Independence Day. From there I will announce my position on all matters after meeting with President General Michel Aoun," he added.

Hariri then said in Arabic: "I thank President Macron and I believe that France is playing a very positive role in the region especially that French-Lebanese relations are historical and we always support this. I will attend the Independence Day celebration in Lebanon and will announce all my political stances from Lebanon after meeting with the President. You know that I submitted my resignation and we will talk about this issue in Lebanon."

Premier Hariri had arrived shortly after 1 pm, Beirut time, at the Elysee Palace, where he was welcomed by French President Emmanuel Macron. Both Presidents held a closed meeting, focusing on the latest developments.

When Hariri's wife, Lara, and his eldest son, Houssam, arrived, they were welcomed by the French President and his wife, Brigitte. A luncheon was held in honor of Hariri and his family

Source: NNA