Nabatieh: Finance Minister Yassine Jaber said monetary stability remains a key priority, assuring that public-sector salary increases will be paid on schedule. Following a meeting with Maronite Patriarch Cardinal Bechara Boutros Al-Rahi in Diman, Jaber stated that Lebanon's financial situation remains stable despite the country's difficult circumstances.

According to National news agency - Lebanon, the meeting addressed Lebanon's economic and financial situation, government reform efforts, banking-sector restructuring, the financial gap, depositors' rights, and cooperation with the International Monetary Fund and World Bank. Jaber emphasized that the government is working to protect monetary stability while advancing reforms and restoring confidence in Lebanon's economy and state institutions.

On public-sector wage increases, Jaber stressed that the increases will be paid on time without delays. He noted that the main challenge concerns the payment of retroactive amounts dating back to March 1. He explained that paying the full $420 million retroactive amount at once could place pressure on the Lebanese pound and monetary stability. Consequently, the government plans to distribute the payments in successive installments, while potentially accelerating disbursements if government revenues improve.

Jaber called on public-sector employees to understand the Finance Ministry's approach, which he said seeks to balance fairness to employees with protecting the purchasing power of all Lebanese.