Non-binding parliamentary consultations with PM-designate Nawaf Salam
With parliamentary blocs
Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam arrived at Lebanon’s Parliament on Wednesday to launch non-binding consultations with parliamentary blocs.
However, Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri did not attend the parliamentary consultations at the scheduled time of 10 a.m.
MP Elias Bou Saab stated that he conveyed to Nawaf Salam that he had no specific demands, after his meeting with Prime Minister-designate as part of the parliamentary consultations
He described Salam’s approach as "unconventional" and emphasized the need for a logical, non-exclusionary way of thinking to resolve the current crisis.
Bou Saab further noted that both Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri and Salam do not require a mediator in their efforts to address the situation.
Sources told LBCI that it is almost certain that the parliamentary blocs of Hezbollah’s "Loyalty to Resistance" and Amal's "Development and Liberation" will not participate in the non-binding parliamentary consultations.
It will be replaced by an initial meeting between Speaker Berri and Prime Minister-designate Salam on Friday, with possible side meetings with members of both blocs.
Following their meeting with Nawaf Salam, the Change Alliance bloc expressed their preference for a government that is as small as possible, with a clear separation between parliamentary and ministerial roles.
They emphasized the importance of including women and new faces while avoiding political quotas, reiterating the need for a government that serves the nation without falling into partisan divisions.
MP Taymur Jumblatt stated that Lebanon is at a historic juncture, with a unique opportunity to build a state.
He emphasized that this was a key point discussed with Salam.
Jumblatt stressed the importance of communication and dialogue with all parties to achieve this goal.
He added that their single wish from all political parties is to reduce the pressures and demands in order to facilitate the formation of the government.
The Consultative Gathering bloc described the meeting with Salam as promising.
They emphasized the importance of political will to facilitate and ensure the success of both the presidency and the government.
The bloc noted that Salam is eager to engage with all parties and include everyone in the process.
In their turn, the National Moderation Bloc stated that the government must represent all of Lebanon’s components to be successful and effective in the creation of a new Lebanon.
They emphasized Salam's commitment to balanced development and stressed the importance of placing the right individuals in the right roles. The bloc also requested a specific ministerial portfolio.
MP Ali Hassan Khalil arrived briefly at Lebanon’s Parliament during the non-binding parliamentary consultations for government formation.
His visit coincided with the absence of Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri from the consultations, as he did not attend at the scheduled time.
Khalil left shortly after his arrival, raising speculation about the purpose of his brief appearance.
The Strong Lebanon Bloc stated that they have no specific demands and emphasized that the same standards should apply to everyone following the meeting.
They reiterated their rejection of exclusion, marginalization, or discrimination against any party.
The bloc stressed their role in ensuring fair dealings with all sides and highlighted their approach to fostering inclusivity.
They also noted their perspective on the nomination of Salam, underlining their commitment to equitable political engagement.
The Strong Republic Bloc emphasized the need to move away from national unity governments and return to democratic principles.
They stressed that the government should accurately reflect the representation of the Lebanese people, facilitating governance based on clear and balanced standards.
The bloc also expressed their ambition to begin building a "Third Republic," marking a shift towards greater reforms and accountability in Lebanon's political framework.
The Independent National Bloc, following their meeting with Salam during the parliamentary consultations, highlighted the need for a government of qualified professionals that aligns with the aspirations of the current phase.
The bloc stressed the wave of hope among the youth, stressing the importance of transforming this sentiment into trust in governance.
They pledged to do everything possible to support the success of the new government and the presidential term.
The second round of non-binding parliamentary consultations resumed Wednesday afternoon at Lebanon’s Parliament. Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam is leading the discussions aimed at forming a new government.
Following their meeting with the prime minister-designate, the Kataeb Party's leader, MP Samy Gemayel, confirmed, "We have the ability to bring in individuals who can address the most critical issues, and we are capable of reviving the country very quickly."
He emphasized the need to support the president and government in their roles, leaving decisions about the government’s structure to the president and prime minister.
He stressed the significance of Lebanon’s shift toward sovereignty, stating that his party has experienced exclusion firsthand.
"We are the ones who lived through exclusion, and what we see today is far from it," Gemayel said. "It seems that some are not accustomed to equality."
He affirmed that the new chapter for Lebanon must focus on sovereignty.
The Armenian Deputies bloc, for its part, noted, "We believe we are entering a phase of optimism, and we call for the formation of an inclusive government. We are fully prepared to participate in it."
Hagop Pakradounian, speaking on behalf of the bloc, expressed optimism about Lebanon’s future, stating that the country has guarantees in place.
"We believe the country has guarantees, and we hope for the best," he said. He also emphasized that no one should be coerced into participating in the government if they are unwilling to do so.
The second round of non-binding parliamentary consultations resumed Wednesday afternoon at Lebanon’s Parliament. Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam is leading the discussions aimed at forming a new government.
Following the meeting with the prime minister-designate, Kataeb Party leader MP Samy Gemayel confirmed, "We have the ability to bring in individuals who can address the most critical issues, and we are capable of reviving the country very quickly."
He emphasized the need to support the president and government in their roles, leaving decisions about the government’s structure to the president and prime minister.
He stressed the significance of Lebanon’s shift toward sovereignty, stating that his party has experienced exclusion firsthand.
"We are the ones who lived through exclusion, and what we see today is far from it," Gemayel said. "It seems that some are not accustomed to equality."
He affirmed that the new chapter for Lebanon must focus on sovereignty.
The Armenian Deputies bloc, for its part, noted, "We believe we are entering a phase of optimism, and we call for the formation of an inclusive government. We are fully prepared to participate in it."
Hagop Pakradounian, speaking on behalf of the bloc, expressed optimism about Lebanon’s future, stating that the country has guarantees in place.
"We believe the country has guarantees, and we hope for the best," he said. He also emphasized that no one should be coerced into participating in the government if they are unwilling to do so.
The National Consensus bloc stated that the Taif Agreement is "the means to overcome all obstacles that could hinder life in Lebanon."
MP Faisal Karami further added: "The prime minister-designate is renowned for his competence and integrity. We must adapt to the new situation and approach this phase with openness. Most importantly, we must not 'break' or isolate anyone. Only the Lebanese state and the constitution can protect us."
Meanwhile, MP Adnan Traboulsi stated: "We must form a government that puts Lebanon on the path to salvation."
MP Michel Moawad from the Renewal bloc highlighted the significant role played by the opposition and the bloc in reaching the current political stage in Lebanon.
“We have begun the process of reconstituting power, and we will continue with the formation of a government,” Moawad said from the Parliament.
"This government must be built on solid foundations and principles, and its mission should be to build a new chapter. Since the task is both political and technical, we hope the government includes the largest number of political blocs. It would be better if everyone participates."
He also underscored that the Shiite sect is a partner sect.
The latest round of parliamentary consultations later concluded, with expectations that they will continue on Thursday.
Political leaders are working to reach an agreement on forming a new government, with discussions ongoing amid Lebanon's political and economic challenges.