Sawt Beirut International (SBI) reporter Rabih Shantef, conveyed from Baabda Palace this afternoon Prime Minister-designate Saad Hariri’s speech after his meeting with President of the Republic, Michel Aoun.

Saad Hariri refrained from premiership designation and said: “After holding negotiations with President Aoun, the latter requested amendments that I considered essential in the formation; it has become obvious that the situation will remain as is and that we can’t see eye to eye.”

He added: “I even asked President Aoun if he needs time to consider the proposal, but he said it appears that we would not reach an agreement. In witness thereof, I apologize for not forming a cabinet. May God’s blessings be upon this country!”