The caretaker Prime Minister, Najib Mikati, affirmed that "none of the ministers have the ambition to take away anyone's powers, and we are working with full integrity and patriotism to maintain this state with all its essential components. The decrees we signed are to manage state affairs and do not discriminate between any groups." He emphasized that the solution lies in electing a President for the Republic.
During his meeting with Maronite Patriarch Bechara al-Rahi, he noted that by the end of this month, "we will not be able to secure medicine or salaries, and we must work together to save this country."
Mikati added, "I spoke with Patriarch al-Rahi, and there was a proposal to invite a consultative session of the Council of Ministers next Tuesday at 11 AM in Diman to discuss the risks threatening all Lebanese and to develop ways to address them and protect society from these dangers."
He pointed out that the issue of Syrian refugees was discussed, stating: "Lebanon suffers greatly because of this issue, and any matter that negatively impacts our economy is rejected by the people and the citizens."
Regarding the reported discontent of the Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Lebanon, Wassim Mansouri, over the government retracting the law regarding borrowing in foreign currencies from the mandatory reserves at the Central Bank, he said: "I contacted Mansouri this morning, and I did not sense any discontent from him. The governor presented a proposal for a comprehensive monetary and economic plan and requested the Parliament's approval, which aligns with the government's plans. Our objective is to pass these plans, and we must not waste time because the goal is to save the country."
On the events in Ain al-Hilweh, he stated: "I am following the situation with the army commander, and God willing, things will be under control soon."
Prime Minister Mikati was accompanied by ministers: George Boujikian, Najla Riachi, Amin Salam, Mohammad Wissam al-Moustaqbal, George Klass, former minister Nicolas Nahas, and Mikati's advisor, Ambassador Boutros Asaker.
