Lebanese President Aoun Advocates Reforms Amid Regional Tensions

President Joseph Aoun emphasizes Lebanon’s dedication to reforms in a meeting with Lebanese expatriates in Saudi Arabia. He highlighted financial mismanagement issues, the necessity for a reliable banking sector, and ongoing diplomatic efforts regarding Israel’s occupation. Tensions with Hezbollah arise over differing views on addressing Israel and maintaining national interests.

In Beirut, President Joseph Aoun emphasized Lebanon’s commitment to restoring trust among Arab nations and the international community during a meeting with Lebanese businessmen in Saudi Arabia. He expressed gratitude towards the Kingdom for their support of expatriates and their families, underscoring the urgent need to address financial mismanagement affecting depositors in Lebanese banks since 2019.

President Aoun stated that a viable solution necessitates collaboration among economic bodies, banks, depositors, and the state to revitalize the economy, asserting, “Boosting the economic cycle and investment flow requires a trustworthy banking sector.” He reiterated this commitment was central to the government’s agenda and called for expedited legislative action to support recovery efforts.

During a recent visit by German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, Aoun relayed that Israel’s occupation of southern Lebanon hinders compliance with UN Resolution 1701 and violates previous agreements. The President detailed ongoing diplomatic efforts and negotiations to resolve the situation, including Israel’s refusal to withdraw from occupied territories and hold on to several Lebanese prisoners.

Hezbollah reacted critically to comments made by Foreign Minister Youssef Rajji, accusing him of misrepresenting Hezbollah’s adherence to the ceasefire agreement with Israel and suggesting that his remarks are detrimental to national interests. Rajji had emphasized diplomatic efforts to conclude the Israeli occupation, but asserted that Lebanon would not engage in direct negotiations with Israel.

MP Ibrahim Al-Moussawi from Hezbollah defended their position and criticized Rajji’s statements for contradicting national consensus, arguing that it gave Israel further justification for its actions. Furthermore, Sheikh Naim Qassem, Hezbollah’s Secretary-General, expressed concern over the foreign minister’s remarks, stating that such positions undermine Lebanon’s integrity and diplomatic efforts aiming to uphold the agreements established under international law.

In summary, President Joseph Aoun is actively pursuing reforms to restore Lebanon’s credibility amidst economic challenges, while simultaneously addressing the complex geopolitical issues stemming from Israel’s actions in southern Lebanon. The discourse between the Lebanese government and Hezbollah highlights significant internal divisions regarding diplomatic strategies. Ongoing negotiations are pivotal as Lebanon strives to navigate its international relations and domestic integrity amidst evolving regional dynamics.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com