By aawsat.com – Speaker Nabih Berri and Interior Minister Nohad al-Mashnouq have stressed that Lebanon’s parliamentary elections will be held on time next May. “The collective determination by the Lebanese affirms the need and duty for parliamentary polls to take place as scheduled and this has become a reality that can’t be doubted,” Berri was quoted as saying by lawmakers who visited him at his Ain el-Tineh residence on Wednesday. He said that the country has “literally” entered the electoral phase, adding: “Any talk of revisions (over the law) are now behind us … and if we had gone to parliament for any changes, this would have threatened the law.” In his turn, Mashnouq confirmed that the interior ministry is prepared for the polls despite its complications. During a meeting with French Ambassador to Beirut Bruno Foucher, Mashnouq said his ministry is ready for the elections “technically, logistically, and administratively.” He stressed that it was important for the Lebanese living abroad to take part in the voting process for the first time. “It would be an opportunity for the diaspora to make their voices heard and reaffirm their presence in the general life of Lebanese and the democratic process,” Mashnouq added. The interior minister also discussed with the French ambassador the developments in Lebanon and the region, and preparations to hold the Rome 2 conference that is aimed at garnering support for the Lebanese army and security forces.