Lebanese PM: Diplomatic option reflects 'national responsibility' to strengthen state sovereignty

Brussels, April 21 (KUNA) -- Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam affirmed on Tuesday that the choice of diplomacy “is not a sign of weakness” but rather reflects a “national responsibility” aimed at restoring Lebanon’s sovereignty and protecting its people. He made these remarks in a speech delivered to the foreign ministers of the European Union during their meeting in Luxembourg, emphasizing that his country is not seeking a “symbolic engagement” but is determined to seize the current opportunity to work toward a lasting resolution of the crisis.

Salam clarified that the Lebanese government, through this diplomatic path, seeks to end the occupation, ensure the release of Lebanese prisoners, and guarantee the return of displaced persons to their homes and villages. He added that Lebanon’s determination to consolidate the state’s monopoly on arms and put an end to regional interference in its internal affairs “should no longer be called into question.”

Salam pointed out that the scale of the challenges facing Lebanon is “immense” and requires a higher level of international solidarity, stressing that his country needs its European partners “more than ever.” In this context, he called for continued European support to address the unprecedented humanitarian crisis and to strengthen the Lebanese Armed Forces and internal security forces, noting that “the equation is clear”: the stronger the Lebanese army, the weaker the illegal armed groups.

He also underscored the importance of supporting recovery and reconstruction efforts, considering them “the cornerstone of long-term stability in Lebanon and the region as a whole.” (End) A.R.N. / N.S.A.