Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam Earns Parliamentary Confidence with Regional Support

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam received congratulations after gaining parliamentary confidence. Support came from Saudi Arabia and Egypt, viewing this as a step toward stability. Salam’s government prioritizes Israeli troop withdrawal, economic recovery, and transparent reconstruction funding, amidst ongoing military tensions and social challenges.

BEIRUT: Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam was congratulated by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman following the formation of his government and its successful acquisition of parliamentary confidence. The crown prince extended his wishes for success and advancement for the citizens of Lebanon.

Egypt’s Foreign Ministry commended the Lebanese government’s confidence gain from Parliament, indicating it signifies a new era that could help restore security and stability in Lebanon. Salam’s government obtained the confidence of 95 Members of Parliament, including support from Hezbollah, while 12 MPs voted against it, primarily from the Free Patriotic Movement, and four abstained from voting.

The confidence vote followed extensive parliamentary sessions aimed at deliberating the ministerial statement, which serves as the government’s action plan for approximately 15 months until the subsequent parliamentary elections. President Joseph Aoun acknowledged the confidence granted by the MPs while respecting those who opposed it, emphasizing the importance of opposition within the parliamentary democratic framework.

In addressing the parliamentary discussions, Prime Minister Salam affirmed his commitment to taking the deputies’ remarks seriously and aims to enhance trust between the government and the public. He underscored the significance of constructive criticism without fostering sectarian tensions.

Salam declared that the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory is a priority for his administration, asserting, “Achieving the complete withdrawal of the Israeli troops from Lebanese territories is a top priority for our government.” He aims to secure international and Arab support to enforce compliance with relevant resolutions.

Furthermore, Salam committed to creating a transparent reconstruction fund to address the socioeconomic fallout from the conflict, stating the need for trust from the Lebanese populace and international donors. He also announced ongoing efforts regarding oil and gas explorations to bolster Lebanon’s economic interests.

Regarding the repatriation of Syrian refugees, Salam emphasized the importance of a sustainable return, highlighting the need for a coordinated plan with Syrian authorities and relevant UN agencies. Meanwhile, the Lebanese Armed Forces reported the discovery of two espionage devices in the southern regions, urging citizens to avoid contact with them.

In parallel, Hezbollah has been conducting burials for members who perished during the cross-border conflict following Israeli incursions, while Israeli forces continue to control strategic highlands in the border area without specifying a timeline for withdrawal.

In conclusion, Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam’s recent government formation has garnered significant support, resulting in confidence from parliamentary representatives. Key priorities for Salam’s administration include the withdrawal of Israeli troops, the establishment of a transparent reconstruction fund, and socio-economic recovery. Engagement with international partners is crucial for addressing oil exploration and the repatriation of Syrian refugees. This progress paves the way for potential stability and security in Lebanon.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com