a day ago
02 Jul 2025 11:54 AM Salam Vows to Confront and Ramp Up Pressure
Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam considered the Economic Council 'an essential societal partner at this critical moment, and salvation can only come through genuine reform that establishes a modern state capable of earning the trust of its citizens and the world.' He emphasized that 'we are intensifying pressure to implement Resolution 1701, and the state continues its efforts to extend its authority over all territories to limit weapons, curb smuggling, and enhance safety at the airport.'
Salam stated that 'the visits by President Joseph Aoun and myself to several countries were aimed at bringing Lebanon back into the Arab and international fold. There can be no investment or services without financial and economic stability.' He added, 'We are working to complete the Financial Gap Law and to pass the Banking Secrecy Law as a foundation for financial reform. The state is striving to improve its services, and the economy cannot recover without reactivating the credit role of the banking sector.' He noted, 'Without a fresh flow of credit, the economic cycle will remain paralyzed. Our negotiations with the International Monetary Fund are progressing, and our goal is to sign an agreement during the government's term.'
Salam stressed, 'Our priority is to expand the partnership between the public and private sectors and allocate support to the most affected industries. We have launched a tourism plan to encourage the return of expatriates and to welcome Arab tourists.' He added, 'The master plan for Qlaiaat Airport has been completed in preparation for its launch. We visited the South, North, and Bekaa regions to assess their needs, and we are working on modernizing public administration through merit-based appointments.'
'We have adopted a new public sector hiring mechanism based on competencies to improve services, and we are working on transforming the Beirut Public Library into a cultural center and renovating the Camille Chamoun Sports City,' Salam said.
The Prime Minister affirmed that 'reconstruction is a practical political and economic matter to keep people on their land and restore what the war destroyed, and we are launching reconstruction efforts transparently.' He concluded, 'We look forward to activating the role of the Economic Council to serve as a bridge between the state and citizens. We have chosen not to avoid challenges but to confront them and start, no matter how difficult the path may be.'
