Lebanon Appoints New Government Under Prime Minister Nawaf Salam

Lebanon has appointed a new government led by Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, formally ending Najib Mikati’s administration. The cabinet, featuring 24 ministers, will prioritize economic reforms and uphold UN Resolution 1701. The international community has welcomed this change, emphasizing the need for a focused reform agenda to secure stability in Lebanon.

Lebanon has officially appointed a new government led by Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, as announced by the presidency on Saturday. President Joseph Aoun has signed the necessary decrees to formalize the transition from outgoing Prime Minister Najib Mikati’s cabinet, following extensive negotiations involving various political parties. The new cabinet, comprised of 24 ministers, is scheduled to hold its inaugural meeting on Tuesday, February 11, at Baabda Palace in Beirut.

Prime Minister Nawaf Salam emphasized that his administration’s foremost goal will be the implementation of economic reforms necessary for stimulating investment and facilitating reconstruction efforts post-conflict with Israel and Hezbollah last year. In his speech, Salam underscored Lebanon’s commitment to uphold UN Resolution 1701, which concluded the 2006 Hezbollah-Israel war, stating that reform is essential for achieving national salvation and stability.

The cabinet includes key ministers, such as Tarek Mitri as Deputy Prime Minister and Michel Mnassah as Minister of Defence, as well as several other crucial portfolios, such as Finance, Interior, and Health. The formation process experienced delays attributed to disputes regarding the appointment of Shiite ministers, typically determined by Hezbollah and the Amal Movement.

The appointment of the new cabinet has been positively received by international officials. United Nations Special Coordinator for Lebanon, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, praised the government formation, indicating it opens the path for significant reforms in Lebanon. Similarly, European Union Ambassador Sandra De Waele expressed her support for the government’s reform agenda, emphasizing the importance of its implementation for Lebanon’s future.

The recent announcement regarding Lebanon’s new government reflects ongoing efforts to stabilize the country’s political landscape following significant challenges in governance and national security. The appointment of Prime Minister Nawaf Salam comes after a lengthy negotiation process among various Lebanese political factions, highlighting the complexity of forming a unified and effective governance. The international community’s response to this government formation is significant, as it signals potential support for necessary reforms aimed at addressing Lebanon’s economic and security issues.

In summary, Lebanon has entered a new phase of governance with the appointment of Prime Minister Nawaf Salam and his cabinet, which is focused on essential economic reforms and upholding international resolutions. The government’s first meeting is anticipated to signal a commitment to restoring stability and addressing the urgent needs of the nation through reform. International support reinforces the hope for a productive partnership in the policy-making journey ahead.

Original Source: www.dailynewsegypt.com