EU’s Mogherini calls on Hariri to return to Lebanon

EU foreign policy chief says EU expects no external interference in Lebanon’s internal affairs

By Serife Cetin

BRUSSELS (AA) - EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini on Monday said the EU expects no external interference in Lebanon’s internal affairs.

Speaking to reporters before a meeting in Brussels, Mogherini said, “We appeal first of all to the political forces to focus on Lebanon and what they can deliver to their citizens, [and] Prime Minister Hariri to return to his country”.

Last week, Hariri abruptly announced his resignation in a televised address delivered from Saudi Arabia.

Mogherini said, “We expect no external interference in this national agenda”.

“It is essential to avoid importing into Lebanon regional conflicts, regional dynamics, regional tensions that have to stay out of the country,” she added.

Mogherini also said that all political parties in Lebanon should work together.

Hariri's resignation, which has yet to be endorsed by Lebanese President Michel Aoun, came amid tension between Saudi Arabia and Iran.

Hariri was appointed prime minister late last year. Before his Nov. 4 resignation, he led a 30-member government that included Hezbollah.

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