The Lebanese Cabinet convened for a regular session at 2 PM today at the Presidential Palace, presided over by President Michel Aoun and attended by Prime Minister Nawaf Salam and other ministers.
President Aoun opened the Cabinet session highlighting positive developments instilling hope among Lebanese citizens, notably the groundbreaking for the expansion of the Port of Beirut. This initiative, facilitated by the Minister of Public Works and Transport, marks a promising step expected to be followed by further actions. He recalled their request for ministries to propose projects for investment from the United Arab Emirates, noting the welcoming response from Emirati officials and business leaders, with two delegations having visited Lebanon.
He urged ministers to act swiftly to seize opportunities benefitting all Lebanese, avoiding narrow political maneuvers. Acknowledging support from international partners, Aoun emphasized the importance of inter-ministerial coordination to capitalize on available opportunities for advancing proposed projects. He mentioned new positive updates from the Energy Minister regarding electricity, encouraging exploitation of these developments.
Regarding the national budget, Aoun commended the ongoing sessions aimed at completing budget preparation within the constitutional timeframe, noting it's the second consecutive budget advanced as per constitutional deadlines.
Aoun acknowledged receiving appeals from residents of Nabatiyeh, Tyre, and Arab Salim, affirming the government’s commitment to supporting these communities and ensuring the state's return to southern Lebanon. He stressed the collective responsibility of all ministries to support the South, a fundamental part of Lebanon.
Prior to the session, Aoun and Salam met to discuss recent developments and general national conditions.
The Cabinet continues to deliberate on political, security, and humanitarian developments, alongside routine agenda items and civil service matters.
Key topics include the regularization of contract professors at the Lebanese University and various appointments, including urgent items requiring timely decisions.