Suleiman calls for Arab  reconciliation

By GHAZANFAR ALI KHAN | ARAB NEWS

RIYADH: Lebanese President Michel Suleiman has underlined the need for "Arab reconciliation and solidarity" to settle regional problems and ensure comprehensive peace and security in the Middle East.

Suleiman also emphasized the threat posed by Israel during a speech he delivered to Lebanese expatriates in Riyadh on Sunday before leaving for Jeddah.

The president, who visited the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology on Sunday, was keen to promote cooperation between the Kingdom and Lebanon in different fields.

In his speech, Suleiman expressed appreciation for the role and support of the Kingdom in solving regional issues vital for the restoration of peace and security in the region. He said his discussions with Saudi leaders focused on bolstering bilateral relations in addition to improving inter-Arab ties.

"The Lebanese president also met with Foreign Minister Prince Saud Al-Faisal on Saturday night," said Osama Nugali, spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

On domestic issues, Suleiman spoke about changes in Lebanese electoral laws, support for Lebanese expatriates, citizenship and voting rights for expatriates. He said Lebanon's Cabinet has approved changes in municipal electoral laws, which will be submitted to Parliament for approval after the government concludes discussions on the formation of a supervisory commission for the electoral system.

The reforms include proportional representation in all districts of Lebanon, direct election of mayors and their deputies, a 20 percent quota for women and introduction of new ballot papers.

The proposal would allow expatriates the right to vote. According to some estimates, up to 15 million people of Lebanese origin live outside the country, a large number of them in Saudi Arabia.

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