NNA - Prime Minister, Nawaf Salam, on Thursday affirmed that Lebanon has entered "a new phase over the past two months, focused on rebuilding the state and enacting deep-rooted reforms across economic, financial, administrative, and political levels."

During a meeting with Saqr Ghobash, President of the UAE’s Federal National Council, Salam underscored the government’s commitment to restoring trust with Arab states, particularly praising the UAE for its continued support and for hosting hundreds of thousands of Lebanese nationals. He welcomed the Emirati delegation, which conveyed greetings from UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Salam highlighted the government’s progress in advancing reform legislation, notably the pending law on lifting banking secrecy, which he described as "a gateway to financial reform." He also revealed plans to pass a law ensuring judicial independence, aimed at protecting investments, curbing the cash economy, and reinforcing investor confidence.

Reiterating Lebanon’s commitment to sovereignty and stability, Salam expressed hope for the return of Emirati tourists and voiced his readiness to visit the UAE. He emphasized the importance of regional stability, particularly in Syria, noting that a normalization of relations and the lifting of sanctions would benefit Lebanon, especially in facilitating refugee returns and reviving trade and energy sectors.

Ghobash, for his part, praised Salam’s leadership and the swift formation of his government, expressing confidence in Lebanon’s capacity to reclaim its historical role and rebuild state institutions.

Separately, Salam met with Interior Minister Brig. Gen. Ahmad Hajjar, with whom he reviewed the country’s security landscape and preparations for the upcoming municipal elections.

================R.H.