"Contacts and discussions between Egypt and Saudi Arabia over Lebanon are still on," he told Al-Hayat daily.

"The situation in Lebanon is very difficult and I don't see a possibility of a breakthrough in the near future," Abul Gheit declared.

"Yet, we must carry on in putting efforts and trying to convince Lebanese to come together and join efforts in order to reach a solution. The idea of resuming dialogue is not a bad idea, for it helps reducing the increased tension," he added.

"I'm not saying that we support the idea of dialogue, but we should give it a chance since it could calm tensions once all parties sit together," he said.

"It's clear that no agreement has yet been achieved on how to get to choose (a President) regardless of the deal planned by the Lebanese opposition," Abul Gheit added.

"On the other hand, if we wait until a President is elected without dialogue among the parties, this also has its faults.

"This is an idea that has to be well examined and assessed until we are certain that it is going to be fruitful and achieve the goal - which is to prevent any confrontation and escalation in stances," Abul Gheit explained.

When asked about the rejection of the majority to resume dialogue ahead of the election of a president, Abul Gheit noted that once a president is elected, "there won't be a need for dialogue, for he will bring together all factions."

"However, if the immediate election of a president is impossible we must consider dialogue for it reduces the level of tension," he added.

Abul Gheit denied any efforts or mediation between Syria and Saudi Arabia and acknowledged the existence of a divergence in point of views with Damascus over the "Syrian understanding of the Arab initiative regarding Lebanon."

"The crisis in Lebanon will be prolonged. I did not say that Egypt supports dialogue. However, the idea must be considered for it might help reducing tension," Abul Gheit declared.

Sources: Now Lebanon, Naharnet