Lebanese President Joseph Aoun declared that the government will retain sole authority in decision-making, excluding political parties and sects. During the first cabinet meeting post-confidence vote, reforms were emphasized as critical for Lebanon’s stability. The government approved the 2025 budget, addressing urgent matters, while plans for regional cooperation were discussed, emphasizing the need for diplomatic consistency and support from neighboring states.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has declared that decision-making in Lebanon will solely reside with the government, excluding political parties and sects from this process. He emphasized that implementing reforms is crucial for the stability of Lebanon, asserting that this need extends beyond international demands.
Aoun’s statements were made during the cabinet’s initial meeting at Baabda Palace after receiving a vote of confidence. The agenda included 25 items as well as urgent issues, following discussions between Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam regarding current events.
During this session, the government approved the 2025 budget by decree and instructed the finance minister to review certain fees within a week. Additionally, a plan prioritizing the execution of reforms was adopted.
Aoun updated the cabinet on his recent visit to Saudi Arabia, where discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman centered around support for Lebanon contingent upon necessary reforms. He requested that the travel ban on Saudi visitors to Lebanon be lifted and sought to facilitate Lebanese exports to Saudi Arabia, with these issues currently under review. A subsequent visit to Saudi Arabia is anticipated post-Eid al-Fitr, with ministers likely to sign several bilateral agreements.
Moreover, Aoun spoke about his attendance at the emergency Arab summit in Egypt, where he engaged with ten heads of state who expressed their willingness to support Lebanon, contingent upon reforms. He noted Jordan’s King Abdullah II had promised political and military backing, while Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas affirmed his support for Lebanon’s policies concerning Palestinian refugee camps.
On the topic of appointments, Aoun emphasized that only the cabinet holds the authority to decide, urging ministers to keep discussions confidential and refrain from political meddling. Following the session, Salam announced that future meetings would take place in an independent location, in accordance with the Taif Agreement, with details to be disclosed next week.
Foreign Minister Youssef Raji stated that diplomatic appointments are currently under review, with a temporary extension granted to six ambassadors. Additionally, Information Minister Paul Morcos revealed that tax exemptions would be provided to those impacted by the Israeli conflict and announced the appointment of 63 specialized officers within the Internal Security Forces.
In summary, President Joseph Aoun has asserted that decision-making in Lebanon is a government responsibility free from party and sect influence. The cabinet is focused on necessary reforms and stability, approving the 2025 budget and prioritizing efforts to implement reforms. Collaborative discussions with Saudi Arabia and supportive gestures from regional leaders are anticipated, while the cabinet emphasizes confidentiality in decision-making processes.
Original Source: english.aawsat.com
