Lebanese politicians boycott national dialogue

Leaders of a number of Lebanese political forces stated Sunday they will boycott tomorrow's session of the national dialogue. Chairmen of the Lebanese Democratic Party MP Prince Talal Arslan, Al Marada Movement MP Suleiman Frangieh and the Syrian Social Nationalist Party Assaad Hardan have informed the host Presidential Palace of they were not attending the dialogue following a similar move by Hezbollah. Similarly, Chairman of the Lebanese Forces Party Samir Geagea decided not to attend the session, attributing the decision to Hezbollah's lukewarm interest in the dialogue. On the other hand, Chairman of the Progressive Socialist Party (PSP) Waleed Jumblatt said he agreed during his meeting with Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri to pursue the dialogue in order to resolve the political stalemate in the country. Earlier today President Michel Suleiman highlighted the need for the political forces to agree on a national defense strategy in the face of dangers posed by Israel, end unlawful arms displays and combat terrorism. He regretted the failure of key members of the national dialogue to take part in tomorrow's sitting. The dialogue started in late 2006 and continued on-off until the last session in 2012.