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Lebanon’s PM confirms his resignation and will return to Beirut

Mr Hariri said he will go back to Lebanon in the coming days to take part in Independence Day celebrations.

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Emmanuel Macron, right, poses for photographers with Saad Hariri prior to their meeting at the Elysee Palace in Paris

Lebanon’s prime minister Saad Hariri has said he is returning to the country and confirmed he is resigning amid political tensions.

He told reporters in Paris: “As you know I have resigned and we will speak about this matter there (Lebanon).”

Mr Hariri, who flew to France from Saudi Arabia, where he first made his shock resignation announcement, said he will go back to Lebanon in the coming days to take part in Independence Day celebrations.

Emmanuel Macron, centre right, and his wife Brigitte, right, greet Saad Hariri, second left, his wife Lara and their son Hussam upon their arrival at the Elysee Palace in Paris
Emmanuel Macron, centre right, and his wife Brigitte, right, greet Saad Hariri, second left, his wife Lara and their son Hussam upon their arrival at the Elysee Palace in Paris (Christophe Ena/AP)

Mr Hariri spoke to reporters on Saturday after a meeting with French president Emmanuel Macron during which he thanked France for the “positive political role” it is playing in the Middle East.

He was joined for lunch at the Elysee Palace by his wife and older son along with Mr Macron and his wife.

Lebanese president Michel Aoun refused to accept the resignation that was made through a TV broadcast in Saudi Arabia, and accused the kingdom of holding Mr Hariri against his will.

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