Beirut: Finance Minister, Yassine Jaber, on Thursday confirmed that the Cabinet approved in its latest session a draft law he had submitted to allocate funds in the 2025 budget to begin monthly payments of 12 million Lebanese pounds to all retired civil servants. The Minister emphasized this is part of a broader path toward correcting salaries and wages for both active and retired public sector employees, in line with living conditions and the state’s financial reality, in a way that maintains balance and preserves the dignity of workers and upholds the sought-after social justice.

According to National News Agency – Lebanon, Jaber stated that the recent approval by the Cabinet reflects the state’s intention to launch a reconstruction effort based on its own limited capabilities. He mentioned the openness to assistance from friendly and brotherly countries and international institutions, with the World Bank being a primary partner.

Jaber revealed that an initial payment of 200 billion Lebanese pounds will be disbursed to the High Relief Commission from the Treasury to commence repair works in Beirut’s southern suburbs. He also announced his authorization to sign a $250 million loan agreement with the World Bank, which is earmarked for rebuilding infrastructure in areas affected by the Israeli aggression on Lebanon.

The Finance Minister further highlighted that the Cabinet approved a plan he submitted, which is based on an agreement between the Ministry of Finance, the Council for Development and Reconstruction, and the Contractors Syndicate. This plan involves paying outstanding dues to contractors working with the Council in scheduled annual installments, aiming to resolve delays that have hindered several vital projects.

Lastly, Jaber chaired a meeting with relevant directors to review progress in preparing the 2026 budget, which is anticipated to be submitted within the constitutional timeframe.