Hariri: Pope Francis to Visit Lebanon Once New Government Formed

Pope Francis is going to visit Lebanon but only once its fractious politicians can agree on a new government, Prime Minister-designate Saad al-Hariri stated during a visit to the Vatican on Thursday.

"We have spoken about all problems Lebanon faces, and there will be visits from the Pope to solve the matters," Hariri told reporters in comments broadcast live on Lebanese television.

"I explained to His Holiness Pope Francis the problems we are suffering from and asked His Holiness to help Lebanon," Hariri added.

Moreover, the Prime Minister affirmed that the Pope consider the Lebanese one entity, as well as a symbol of coexisting and moderation.

“I believe there are external problems related to Gebran Bassil and his allies that delay forming a new government,” he claimed.

Also, he stressed that the situations are extremely difficult and the country is in urgent need of a new government to stop this economic collapse. However, there are certain people who want to prevent any significant reforms.