In recent hours, a Western presence has emerged in the political scene, notably through French Ambassador to Lebanon Anne Grillo's engagements with officials, coinciding with a similar move by U.S. Ambassador to Beirut Dorothy Shea. According to information from "Al-Jumhuriya," the French ambassador's visit to Prime Minister-designate Najib Mikati yesterday provided an opportunity to reaffirm France's supportive stance towards Lebanon and the need for expediting the formation of a government to manage the Lebanese situation and commence the remedial and rescue tasks essential for Lebanon's exit from its crisis. Vital issues for Lebanon are being pursued, especially concerning the maritime border demarcation between Lebanon and Israel, which Paris encourages to reach swift agreements beneficial to both parties. At the same time, the groundwork is being prepared to complete constitutional obligations on schedule, primarily the election of a new president. The same was emphasized by Swiss diplomacy, which stressed the need for steps that enhance stability and security in Lebanon.
On the other hand, the American presence at this time was notable, particularly with a delegation from the "American Task Force for Lebanon" visiting and meeting with the three presidents. This delegation reflected the U.S. stance on the crisis in Lebanon through a set of affirmations that began by emphasizing support and followed up with the following points:
- The importance of swiftly enacting necessary changes and reforms as time is no longer a supportive factor. The situation in Lebanon is concerning and necessitates rapid action on both economic and social fronts before it's too late, and this moment is approaching quickly.
- The government must take immediate steps towards the reform program of the International Monetary Fund and other programs and policies addressing the needs of the Lebanese people. This requires urgency in the government's and parliament's actions to finalize laws and policies to advance negotiations with the IMF. Time is running out, and by the end of the year, the parliament and government must accelerate the legislative process to save Lebanon and assist the Lebanese people, taking numerous actions. The United States is feeling the pressure from the international community regarding this, and Lebanese officials must do something to support the Lebanese people. If the government and parliament do not act quickly, Lebanon is threatened by disaster.
- Lebanon must take the initiative and pursue political change before it's too late, as time is running short.
