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Siniora defends Lebanon government

Lebanon's Prime Minister Fouad Siniora said on Tuesday that his Cabinet is still legitimate despite the resignation of six pro-Syrian ministers.

  • Agencies
  • Published: 00:00 November 21, 2006
  • Gulf News

Beirut: Lebanon's Prime Minister Fouad Siniora said on Tuesday that his Cabinet is still legitimate despite the resignation of six pro-Syrian ministers.

Siniora warned that any anti-government protests could turn violent, after pro-Syrian Hezbollah urged allies to prepare for street demonstrations to topple the government.

Hezbollah accuses Siniora's government as a US ally that no longer represents Shiite Muslims.

The six ministers, including all Shiites, quit earlier this month after all-party talks on Hezbollah demand for more Cabinet power failed.

"We have to realise that this government still enjoys constitutional legitimacy," Siniora said, while admitting that the lack of Shiite ministers was a major shortfall.

"We still pin great hopes (for resolving the crisis) through the one and only route available for the Lebanese ... which is a return to the negotiating table."

The anti-Syrian ruling majority claim that the opposition is trying to block progress towards an international trial on the murder of former Prime Minister Rafik Al Hariri.

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