Maronite Patriarch Bechara Boutros Rahi said on Tuesday in the wake of his meeting with Parliament Speaker, Nabih Berri, that his visit to Ain el-Tineh was essential amid the difficult circumstances facing the country.

The Prelate said that he discussed with his host the various developments, the judiciary issue and the disruption of the Council of Ministers’ sessions, which in his words, exacerbates the socio-economic crises.

He said that they did not discuss the Tayouneh incident; yet, they stressed the freedom and independence of the judiciary.

Rahi said he had no information about the summoning of the Lebanese Forces Party leader Samir Geagea, nor any details of the case, for which reason he could not give judgment.

However, Rahi deplored such a summons.