Beirut: Prime Minister Dr. Nawaf Salam held a series of significant meetings at the Grand Serail on Tuesday, focusing on Beirut’s development and security issues. He first welcomed a delegation from the Beirut Municipal Council led by Chairman Ibrahim Zeidan. The discussions primarily centered on the challenges faced by Beirut in terms of development and public services amidst the prevailing economic and social climate. Proposals aimed at enhancing public facilities and boosting municipal performance were tabled during the meeting. Premier Salam underscored the importance of empowering local authorities to effectively carry out their responsibilities.
According to National News Agency – Lebanon, after the meeting, Chairman Zeidan reported that the municipal council delegation conferred with Premier Salam about urgent and long-term projects related to the city’s services. Premier Salam later engaged with a delegation from the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), led by Force Commander General Diodato Abagnara. These discussions revolved around the conditions in south Lebanon, the enforcement of UN Security Council Resolution 1701, and the ongoing collaboration between UNIFIL and the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF). The conversation also touched on the challenges faced by the international forces in fulfilling their mission.
Premier Salam reiterated Lebanon’s commitment to UN Resolution 1701 and its dedication to creating a conducive environment for UNIFIL to execute its mandate effectively. He highlighted the importance of ensuring the safety of UNIFIL personnel. Additionally, President Salam mentioned that Lebanon had formally requested a one-year extension of UNIFIL’s mandate, set to conclude on August 31, 2026, following a decision by the Lebanese government on May 14, 2025.
In other meetings, Salam met with Iraqi Charg© d’Affaires Mohammed Reda Al-Husseini to discuss enhancing bilateral relations and cooperation in mutual interest areas. He also met with Bangladeshi Ambassador Major General Muhammad Jubayer Salehin, where bilateral relations between Lebanon and Bangladesh were discussed.