Lebanon's caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati addressed a delegation of civil defense volunteers, expressing appreciation for the "sacrifices they make," and considering that the government's decision to stabilize civil defense volunteers is a gesture of gratitude for the efforts of civil defense across all Lebanese regions. During his meeting with the director general of civil defense, Brigadier General Raymond Khattar, and a delegation of volunteers at the Grand Serail, Mikati affirmed that "volunteers have the right to receive the necessary recognition for their work and sacrifices, especially since their efforts cover various Lebanese regions without discrimination." He informed the delegation of the issuance of the decree officially stabilizing civil defense volunteers in the official gazette today. He also praised "the role played by Minister of Interior and Municipalities in the caretaker government, Bassam Mawlawi, in bringing this issue to a conclusion."
For his part, Khattar thanked Mikati for "this achievement, after twenty years of waiting," and commended Mawlawi for "his support and follow-up on the rights and demands of civil defense." He expressed hope that "the civil defense would be strengthened with the necessary equipment, so that it can carry out its duties to the fullest." Civil defense personnel delivered remarks expressing their gratitude to the Prime Minister for his ongoing and diligent support of their work.
**Tourism Minister Meeting**
Mikati also received the Minister of Tourism in the caretaker government, Walid Nassar, who clarified after the meeting that he discussed political developments with the Prime Minister and evaluated the tourism season.
Additionally, he met with a delegation of Akkar MPs, including Walid Baarini, Mohamed Salman, Saji Atteyeh, Mohamed Yahya, Ahmed Al-Kheir, and Ahmed Rostom, to discuss developmental and demand-related matters concerning Akkar.
Furthermore, Mikati welcomed MP Nasser Haidar and met with the Algerian Ambassador to Lebanon, Rachid Belbaghi, in a protocol visit marking his assumption of the new position, as well as with the Lebanese Ambassador to Oman, Albert Samaha.
