Salam: The state will not abandon the South: Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said during a visit to the southern town of Yarine that the state "does not forget any of its people," stressing that all citizens are equal in rights and dignity, regardless of region.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Salam addressed the residents of Yarine, expressing a personal connection to the town due to his longstanding family ties. He praised the resilience of the people and their profound attachment to their land. Acknowledging the hardships faced by Yarineh and neighboring villages such as Zalloutiyeh, Al-Bustan, Marwahin, Al-Dhahira, and Tayr Harfa, Salam described the situation as a "real catastrophe" caused by years of neglect and recent destruction.
"The modern state we seek does not distinguish between the son of Yarineh and the son of Beirut," Salam stated, emphasizing the government's commitment to support southern communities so they can continue to live on their land. Despite ongoing attacks and daily concerns among residents, Salam highlighted the priority of steadfastness, pledging continued state support.
Salam announced the initiation of several reconstruction projects in Yarineh, which include road rehabilitation, restoration of telecommunications and water networks, rebuilding the local public school, and support for agricultural greenhouses.
In Tayr Harfa, Salam noted that the town had suffered significantly and confirmed the commencement of similar projects, including infrastructure repairs, rebuilding the public school, restoring water networks with solar-powered pumping, and supporting agriculture. "The presence of the state today is a message in the face of massive destruction," Salam said, emphasizing that restoring state authority is integral to rebuilding schools, health centers, roads, water, electricity, and communications.
Salam concluded by affirming that recovery and reconstruction will follow an integrated approach, focusing on relief, reconstruction, and economic and social development, stating: "The state is here to stay, not to visit and leave."