Lebanese President Joseph Aoun stated that decision-making will be free of political and sectarian influences and emphasized the necessity of reforms for Lebanon’s stability. His remarks followed the government’s approval of the 2025 budget and discussions around support from Saudi Arabia and involvement in the Arab summit. Future meetings will occur in a location consistent with the Taif Agreement.
On his first cabinet meeting at Baabda Palace following the government’s vote of confidence, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun communicated that decision-making is solely in the government’s hands, devoid of influence from political parties or sects. He underscored the necessity of reforms for Lebanon’s stability, emphasizing that this is more than a mere international demand.
The cabinet had a substantial 25-item agenda to address during the meeting, which included both urgent matters and the approval of the 2025 budget by decree. The finance minister was tasked with reviewing specific fees within a week as part of the government’s reform agenda, which is prioritized for implementation.
President Aoun shared insights from his recent visit to Saudi Arabia, where he engaged with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who expressed willingness to support Lebanon on the condition that reforms are undertaken. Aoun further urged for the lifting of the travel ban on Saudi visitors to Lebanon and sought the facilitation of Lebanese exports to the Kingdom, with both topics currently under review. Follow-up discussions in Saudi Arabia are scheduled post-Eid al-Fitr, anticipating the signing of several bilateral agreements by governmental ministers.
In addition, Aoun recounted his experience at the recent emergency Arab summit in Egypt, where he engaged with various heads of state who expressed their support for Lebanon contingent upon effective reforms. He specifically mentioned Jordan’s King Abdullah II and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas as allies in bolstering Lebanon’s policies regarding Palestinian refugee camps.
Emphasizing cabinet authority, Aoun insisted that appointments are strictly the purview of the cabinet and called on ministers to ensure confidentiality, discouraging any political interference. Subsequently, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam announced that future cabinet meetings will take place at an independent venue in accordance with the Taif Agreement, with further details to be disclosed next week.
Moreover, Foreign Minister Youssef Raji noted that there is an ongoing review of diplomatic appointments, while six ambassadors were temporarily extended. Meanwhile, Information Minister Paul Morcos announced tax exemptions designed to assist individuals affected by conflicts, alongside the appointment of 63 specialized officers in the Internal Security Forces.
In summary, President Joseph Aoun’s remarks during the cabinet meeting highlight the importance of reform-driven decision-making in Lebanon, free from sectarian or political interference. The government’s agenda and Aoun’s discussions with international leaders emphasize reform implementation as key to unlocking support and improving stability in Lebanon. Future meetings in accordance with the Taif Agreement reflect a commitment to transparency and independence in governance.
Original Source: english.aawsat.com
