Beirut: Prime Minister, Nawaf Salam, on Friday held a series of meetings at the Grand Serail, beginning with a delegation from the General Confederation of Lebanese Workers headed by Dr. Bechara Asmar. The union reiterated its rejection of newly imposed taxes and fees, arguing that recent salary increases for the public sector remain insufficient as they are not incorporated into base pay. Salam expressed openness to dialogue within the Cabinet and Parliament to reassess the VAT increase, fuel fees and other measures, while studying a fairer tax system and improved revenue collection, including from quarries, maritime properties and tax evasion.

According to National news agency – Lebanon, MP Antoine Habchi discussed safeguarding the electoral process in Baalbek-Hermel and accelerating activation of the cannabis regulatory authority. Salam pledged to follow up with the Interior Ministry to ensure secure and timely elections on May 10.

Salam also met delegations from the Lebanese Food Safety Authority, Arab tribes representatives, and former ambassador Farid El Khazen, addressing development, detainees’ files and support for state institutions.