“Lebanese state officials obstruct the work of the state, while the people attempt to preserve it,” Rai said during a meeting with Zahrani MP Ali Osseiran at the seat of the patriarchate in Bkirki.

 Rai also expressed his regrets over the failure of Lebanese officials to meet the people’s demands. 

“The people are regarded as a zero to the left with no one concerned with their demands and rights,” the patriarch said. 

He added that the paralysis in government institutions had a negative impact on the economy as the rate of emigration among the Lebanese youth continues to rise.