Lebanese President Aoun Emphasizes Government Authority in Key Decisions

President Joseph Aoun asserts that Lebanon’s decision-making lies solely with the government. During a cabinet meeting, reforms were emphasized as crucial for stability. The government approved the 2025 budget and discussed support from Saudi Arabia, with upcoming visits planned. Diplomatic appointments and tax exemptions were also outlined.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has declared that decision-making in Lebanon will be solely under the government’s authority, excluding political parties and sects. He emphasized the necessity of reforms for Lebanon’s stability, which goes beyond international expectations. Aoun made these comments during the first cabinet meeting at Baabda Palace subsequent to the government’s vote of confidence, where they addressed an agenda of 25 items alongside urgent issues.

During this cabinet meeting, the government sanctioned the 2025 budget by decree and assigned the finance minister with the task of reviewing specific fees within a week. Additionally, a prioritized reform implementation plan was adopted. Aoun also provided updates on his recent visit to Saudi Arabia, where he conferred with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, noting Riyadh’s openness to support Lebanon contingent upon the enactment of reforms.

Aoun conveyed to the cabinet his request for lifting the travel ban on Saudis wishing to visit Lebanon and for facilitating Lebanese exports to Saudi Arabia, indicating that these matters are currently under review. A follow-up visit to Saudi Arabia is anticipated post-Eid al-Fitr, where multiple ministers are expected to finalize bilateral agreements.

In regard to his participation in the emergency Arab summit held in Egypt, Aoun highlighted his discussions with ten heads of state who expressed support for Lebanon, conditional on reforms. He also mentioned that King Abdullah II of Jordan pledged both political and military support, while Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas endorsed Lebanon’s policies concerning Palestinian refugee camps.

Addressing appointments, Aoun reaffirmed that decision-making authority rests exclusively with the cabinet, urging ministers to uphold confidentiality and refrain from political interference. Following the session, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam announced future meetings would take place in an independent location, aligned with the Taif Agreement, with further details to be disclosed next week. Foreign Minister Youssef Raji reported that diplomatic appointments are currently under evaluation, providing a temporary extension for six ambassadors. Additionally, Information Minister Paul Morcos announced tax exemptions for individuals affected by the Israeli conflict alongside the appointment of 63 specialized officers in the Internal Security Forces.

In conclusion, President Joseph Aoun has reinforced the government’s central role in decision-making within Lebanon, distancing it from political parties and sects. He underscored the critical need for reforms to bolster national stability and procured support from Saudi Arabia and other Arab states under conditions of reform. The cabinet actively addressed budget approvals and strategic appointments, setting a tone for future governance that prioritizes confidentiality and capacity building.

Original Source: english.aawsat.com