[News] Macron meets Fayrouz, hoping to change the political tune of Lebanon

[ITS OZX-]

French President Emmanuel Macron's meeting with the Lebanese singer Fairouz was one of the most prominent Arab issues covered in British newspapers. The newspapers also covered the economic situation in London, amid months of absence and movement of employees.

The beginning is from The Guardian and a report by Martin Shulov, Middle East correspondent, from Beirut, entitled "Macron meets the singing icon in hopes of changing the political tune of Lebanon."

The writer says that Macron has tried all of this before: reprimanding his counterpart, appealing to ministers, stopping aid, and appealing to the Lebanese ruling class to change its methods in order to save the country.

This time, Macron arrived in Beirut with a different approach: visiting one of the most unifying personalities of the country. His first point of contact was the home of singing icon Fayrouz, whose songs have been a soundtrack to Lebanese life for more than 50 years.

The writer says that the message from the visit is clear, and its significance is that Lebanon has a lot to offer, and it is more than just an irreparable ruling class.

A country with such a culture and heritage should be recognized, and perhaps there is no other person in Lebanon more famous than the 85-year-old singer, whose name and voice are instantly appreciated even in the most conservative quarters.

He adds that Fayrouz, who was completely removed in her appearance and Fairuz was rarely seen in public places, appeared with a sweet smile wearing the protective mask of Covid 19, and did not make a statement, but her mere appearance was a glimmer of hope for the Lebanese people.

The writer believes that it is clear that the patience of the French leader has run out with Lebanese officials who have hindered efforts to implement reforms, which is a precondition for the financial aid that Lebanon badly needs.

He adds that the call for a cultural icon is an attempt to reset the efforts that have proven ineffective so far, even at a time when Lebanon is withering away in light of successive crises threatening its very existence.