Carole Salloum, “Akhbar al-Yawm” agency

First Term Government: Various Labels, Same Goal..'To Work and Implement'

Resolution 1701 and Exclusivity of Arms, Replacing ‘The Army, the People, and the Resistance’

Amid discussions about the formation of a government, the debate revolves around the options of a political government, a technocratic-government, or a government of experts. In fact, there are many descriptions, but the goal remains the same: "A government that works and implements without obstacles or delays."

Following the election of President General Joseph Aoun and the appointment of Judge Nawaf Salam, government formation has become a key topic of both local and international attention, regarding its structure, its tasks, and how the components will be distributed to preserve national partnership.

More speculation is emerging about the first government of the current Term, based on a ministerial statement, which is expected to differ from previous ones.

In this context, informed political sources told "Akhbar al-Yawm" that the ministerial statement will align with the current reality and the directions of the President and the Prime Minister designate, who have clearly expressed that it must reflect the new phase in the country, called the "state-building phase”, where there is room only for authority and its institutions, and no reliance on anyone. These sources pointed out that the statement, which will be finalized after the formation of the government, will not be delayed and will differ from any previous statements; thus, it will not be a mere replica but will be crafted with precision, reflecting a blend of the presidential oath and the appointment speech.

These sources add that the ministerial statement will address political, economic, and social issues through commitments outlined within it. The statement will uphold the Taif Agreement and respect international resolutions, particularly Resolution 1701, the exclusivity of arms, and the dismantling of any phrase that has been circumvented concerning the "Army, People, and Resistance" equation. There will also be a focus on building bridges with the outside world and prioritizing stability, maintaining the ceasefire, deploying the army, and a defensive strategy.

Moreover, the statement will include economic and social measures aimed at attracting investment and protecting depositors' funds, emphasizing that the government will issue decisions in these areas.

On another note, the statement will not overlook the importance of Lebanon's relations with its Arab and international surroundings.

While it may be early to discuss the ministerial statement before the government formation is finalized, in this new chapter of Lebanon's history, there are many positive expectations regarding it and its ministerial statement, and perhaps some surprises will accompany it.