Lebanese Interior Minister: Government Priority is Strengthening State Institutions' Presence
Lebanese Interior Minister affirms the priority of establishing state authority and enhancing the presence of its institutions across all Lebanese territories.
Translated by Qiyas from كونا — Original source
Beirut, October 14 (KUNA) -- Lebanese Minister of Interior and Municipalities Ahmad Hajjar affirmed on Wednesday that the government’s priority is to extend state authority and strengthen the presence of its institutions across all Lebanese territories, “thereby consolidating security and stability and restoring confidence in the state’s capacity to protect and serve its citizens.”
The Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated in a press release that this remark was made by Hajjar during a meeting of the Stability Council, which he chaired, with the participation of a delegation from the German Federal Foreign Office and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The meeting was attended by the German Ambassador to Lebanon, Thomas Tsanaizen, and the UNDP Resident Representative in Lebanon, acting Thair Sharidi.
The statement added that the meeting discussed ways to support the presence of the Lebanese state and its institutions and to enhance their capacities in southern Lebanon, Beirut, and the Southern Suburb, particularly in areas affected by the war, Israeli occupation attacks, and displacement.
During the meeting, participants reviewed a project for the rehabilitation of Internal Security Forces (ISF) centers and facilities, enabling them to fulfill their role in maintaining security and meeting citizens’ needs, alongside supporting and rehabilitating official institutions under the Ministry of Interior and Municipalities.
Minister Hajjar noted that the current phase requires integrated efforts to enhance security, ensure basic services, and create the necessary conditions for the safe and sustainable return of residents to their villages. He emphasized the importance of this project in “supporting the Lebanese state’s efforts and responding to the needs of citizens and local communities,” stressing that strengthening the presence of official institutions, particularly security agencies and relevant administrations, constitutes a fundamental pillar in the recovery process and the consolidation of stability.
According to the statement, the Lebanese Interior Minister also appreciated the contribution, support, and funding provided by the German Federal Foreign Office and the UNDP, expressing hope that “this cooperation will constitute an additional step toward enhancing stability and consolidating the presence of the state and its institutions.” (End) A.Y.B. / N.A.A.
