Lebanese President Joseph Aoun urged a unified Arab stance to overcome regional challenges during a meeting with Oman’s Foreign Minister. The discussions highlighted Oman’s support for Lebanon and potential collaborations. In parallel, the Lebanese parliament is deliberating on governmental reforms while facing military tensions with Israel. France has also expressed readiness to assist Lebanon’s reform efforts.
BEIRUT: President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon has expressed optimism regarding the upcoming extraordinary Arab Summit set for next week in Cairo, believing it will produce a unified Arab response to the region’s pressing challenges. He made these remarks during a meeting with Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al-Busaidi, who was accompanied by a diplomatic delegation. Aoun reiterated the significance of a strong collective Arab front to effectively tackle the ongoing issues in southern Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine.
During the meeting, Aoun acknowledged Oman’s assistance to Lebanon, which has included medical support and scholarships, and he expressed a desire for Omani airlines to recommence flights to Lebanon promptly. In addition, Al-Busaidi conveyed greetings from Sultan Haitham bin Tariq and emphasized the strong ties between Lebanon and Oman. He invited Aoun to visit Oman to explore avenues for enhancing bilateral relations.
Al-Busaidi emphasized that this visit symbolized Oman’s priority of supporting Lebanon and the solidarity of the Omani people with their Lebanese counterparts. He highlighted Oman’s commitment to fostering closer ties through joint committees, agreements, and delegational exchanges, particularly in cultural and economic spheres.
On the domestic front, discussions resumed in the Lebanese parliament regarding Prime Minister Nawaf Salam’s government ministerial statement. Members of Parliament (MPs) anticipate a substantial vote of confidence for the government. MP Ibrahim Mneimneh urged for accountability regarding financial losses, asserting that it is crucial for addressing Lebanon’s current crisis.
Other MPs also voiced concerns about the government’s role during this transitional period. For instance, MP Ghassan Skaff emphasized the government’s necessity as a foundation for future growth, while MP Wael Abu Faour called for lifting political immunities to reform the judiciary. These discussions highlighted various perspectives on the government’s policy direction and economic strategy.
French Ambassador to Lebanon, Herve Magro, signaled France’s willingness to offer continuous technical and political support to the Lebanese government and its reform initiatives. He discussed with Finance Minister Yassine Jaber the reform measures undertaken by the ministry, alongside existing support from the Agence Francaise de Developpement as they prepare for the 2026 budget. Additionally, Magro indicated President Emmanuel Macron’s commitment to helping establish a fund for Lebanon’s reconstruction, highlighting the importance of transparency in reforms.
In military developments, Israeli reconnaissance aircraft conducted extensive surveillance over Beirut and adjacent areas. Earlier, Israeli airstrikes targeted the Jabal Al-Rayhan region and executed mock raids across Tyre District and border villages. These actions included an Israeli drone strike on Janta in the Baalbek district, which resulted in casualties. This area, known for illegal crossings, witnessed the tragic loss of life as individuals were attacked in a transport vehicle during transit.
In summary, President Joseph Aoun has called for a unified Arab response to regional challenges during his meeting with Oman’s Foreign Minister. The discussion underscored the significance of bilateral relations between Lebanon and Oman, as both leaders emphasized solidarity and cooperative initiatives. Concurrently, the Lebanese parliament is actively examining crucial reforms amidst increased military tensions in the region. The commitment of the international community, particularly from France, to support Lebanon’s initiatives is evident as the country navigates its current crises.
Original Source: www.arabnews.jp
