French President Emmanuel Macron called for the swift formation of a new Lebanese government as he arrived in Beirut on Monday on his second visit to the city after the devastating port explosion which killed at least 190 people and injuring nearly 7,000 people. Macron said a new line-up should be agreed "as soon as possible" to rescue the country. "I tell the Lebanese that you are brothers of the French. As I promised you, I am returning to Beirut to review developments regarding emergency aid and to work together to create the necessary conditions for reconstruction and stability," Macron said in a tweet just after he landed. Macron was received at the airport by President Michel Aoun and Prime Minister-designate Mustapha Adib, who was appointed earlier in the day after French pressure. "So president, it's been a busy day, hasn't it," Macron told Aoun as the latter welcomed him. The French president, talking to reporters, called for a new government to be formed "as soon as possible." Macron later went to Rabieh and met iconic Lebanese singer Fairouz at her home. Macron was set to meet with former Prime Minister Saad Hariri later in the evening. Following the explosion, Macron led efforts to seek emergency international aid to assist Lebanon by co-hosting an emergency conference with Aoun. Since the resignation of the former government, France has stressed the need to form a new government quickly so that the necessary reforms can be implemented in line with popular calls for an end to corruption. The French president is expected to visit the Beirut Port on Tuesday and meet with representatives of the United Nations and various NGOs assisting with the reconstruction of the port and the city. Throughout the day Macron will also meet with members of Lebanon's political leadership including Aoun at Baabda Palace. — Agencies
