WASHINGTON: US President Barack Obama will meet Lebanon's Prime Minister Saad Hariri on Wednesday to discuss, among other matters, a UN probe into the murder of his father and ex-premier Rafiq Hariri.
The talks will take place amid US concern at a political crisis sparked by the United Nations probe and perceived pressure by the militant group Hezbollah on Hariri to disavow its findings.
"Tomorrow, President Obama will meet with Prime Minister Saad Hariri of Lebanon to discuss US support for Lebanon's sovereignty, independence, and stability," White House spokesman Robert Gibbs said in a statement.
The talks would also focus on "the ongoing work of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon (STL), and other regional issues," he said.
"Lebanon is an important partner in US efforts to promote peace, stability, and justice in the Middle East."
Obama also phoned Saudi King Abdullah in New York where the monarch is recovering from surgery and discussed Lebanon, a White House spokesman said.
"The President told the King that, in light of their shared commitment to Lebanon's welfare and to supporting Prime Minister Hariri, he looks forward to continuing to work together with Saudi Arabia and other partners to support Lebanon," he added in a statement.
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