President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon emphasized the importance of reforms to regain trust with Arab countries and the global community during a meeting with Lebanese expatriates in Saudi Arabia. He criticized financial management issues and underscored the necessity of a trustworthy banking sector. Additionally, Aoun addressed Israel’s occupation and the detention of Lebanese nationals, while diplomatic tensions with Hezbollah highlighted differing approaches to negotiations with Israel.
BEIRUT – President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to restoring confidence among Arab countries and the international community through necessary reforms. His remarks were made during a meeting with Lebanese businessmen in Saudi Arabia, where he expressed gratitude to the Kingdom for supporting expatriates and their families.
President Aoun highlighted the critical need to address financial and economic mismanagement. He stated, “It is unacceptable to cover the repercussions of financial and economic mismanagement using depositors’ funds, which have been frozen in Lebanese banks since 2019.” He called for immediate collaborative solutions involving economic entities, banks, the central bank, depositors, and the state.
To enhance economic cycles and investment flows, Aoun emphasized that a trustworthy banking sector is essential. He remarked, “This was a commitment in the oath speech and is at the core of the government’s work,” adding that he anticipates parliamentary cooperation to expedite the passage of necessary legislation.
The previous day, Aoun informed German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock that Israel’s occupation of certain southern Lebanese areas hampers the enforcement of UN Resolution 1701, contradicting agreements made last November. Baerbock was in Lebanon prior to her visit to Damascus, where she was set to reopen the German Embassy.
Aoun underscored the Lebanese army’s role in ensuring security in areas vacated by Israeli forces, noting that ongoing diplomatic efforts aim to resolve the matter. He reiterated that Israel continues to detain several Lebanese prisoners, a situation the Lebanese government is “determined” to rectify.
On the following day, Hezbollah responded to Foreign Minister Youssef Rajji’s comments regarding the ceasefire agreement with Israel. Rajji had called for diplomatic efforts to conclude Israeli occupation and reaffirmed Lebanon’s adherence to the 1949 Armistice Agreement, stating that pressure, particularly from the US, is necessary.
He insisted that the implementation of Resolution 1701 and a cessation of military operations were prerequisites. Critically, he stated Lebanon “will not accept any direct political negotiations with Israel.” In contrast, Hezbollah MP Ibrahim Al-Moussawi decried Rajji’s comments, claiming they undermine national interests and distort facts, ultimately aiding Israel’s aggressions.
In conclusion, President Joseph Aoun’s remarks reflect Lebanon’s dedication to reforms and establishing confidence among Arab nations and the world. He emphatically criticized financial mismanagement while underscoring the need for a reliable banking sector. Diplomatic efforts surrounding Israeli occupation and the situation of Lebanese detainees highlight ongoing complexities. The contrasting views within the Lebanese government regarding these issues, particularly in relation to Hezbollah’s stance, reveal divisions that complicate the path to resolution.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
