France called Wednesday on Lebanese politicians to "assume their responsibilities," expressing its "regret" for not respecting the pledges they made during President Emmanuel Macron´s visit to form a government "within 15 days," as it announced French presidency.
The Elysee Palace declared, "It is not too late: everyone should assume their responsibilities for the sake of Lebanon only and allow" Prime Minister Mostafa Adib "to form a government that matches the gravity of the situation."
"We continue to follow with interest the situation and continue our contacts with Lebanese officials to renew this urgent message," the presidency stated.
Macron confirmed, during a visit to Lebanon on September 1, that he had obtained political guarantees to form a government within a 15-day period, explaining that he hoped for a government supported by "all political parties" and capable of implementing reforms.
Since then, negotiations between Mustafa Adib, the little-known former ambassador, have faltered.
"We note today that they are not up to date today. France regrets that Lebanese politicians did not abide by the pledges they made to President Macron on the first of September, according to the announced schedule," the Elysee added.
The presidency stated that on that day, "all Lebanese politicians made a commitment that the rescue government would be able to implement an urgent reform program that meets the needs of Lebanon and the aspirations of the Lebanese and Lebanese women."
In a multi-sectarian country where the same parties have dominated the political scene for decades, officials are accustomed to prolonged bargaining to form a government.
According to Lebanese mediators, the formation of the government stumbles over the party to which the money bag will be entrusted, and the Shiite Amal Party demands the appointment of a "Shiite figure" in this position, which it has held since 2014.
Hezbollah, Amal, and the Free Patriotic Movement have the majority in parliament. The three blocs had formed the resigned government after the Beirut Port bombing on August 4.
