Baabda: President of the Republic, General Joseph Aoun, affirmed that "Lebanon rigorously applies the established procedures to prevent money laundering, smuggling, or its use in financing terrorism, and severely punishes financial crimes of all kinds." His words came during his meeting with the visiting delegation from the US Treasury Department, headed by Deputy Assistant to the President for Terrorist Financing, Dr. Sebastian Gorka, whom he received this evening at Baabda Palace.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the President indicated that these measures include the Parliament's approval of the bill amending the Banking Secrecy Law and the restructuring of banks, as well as the circulars issued by the Central Bank of Lebanon in this regard. He also assured the American delegation that the government is finalizing a draft law addressing the so-called fiscal gap, which will also help stabilize the country's financial situation.
Aoun continued to explain that in parallel with the financial measures underway, the army and security forces are working to pursue terrorist cells and bring their members to justice, thus thwarting any attempt to destabilize security and stability in all Lebanese regions. The meeting with the US Treasury delegation also addressed the ongoing communication with the International Monetary Fund and ways to reach an agreement with the Fund to support Lebanon in overcoming its current economic situation. The steps required to revitalize the banking sector and ensure the smooth flow of capital in accordance with internationally recognized financial standards also featured highly during discussions.
Regarding the situation in south Lebanon, President Aoun stressed "the need to pressure Israel to stop its ongoing attacks on Lebanon and to compel it to implement Resolution 1701 and the agreement reached last year, which would lead to the completion of the army's deployment up to the southern borders and the activation of the plan developed by the army command to implement the decision on the exclusivity of weapons." Aoun indicated that the option of negotiation, which he has repeatedly announced, stems from the fact that the war did not lead anywhere. "However, negotiation requires a suitable climate, most prominently a cessation of hostilities and the achievement of stability in the south," he explained, noting that this option is supported by the United States of America and other countries.
For its part, the American delegation affirmed its readiness to assist Lebanon in its pursuit of security and stability in the south, support the army in extending state authority over all Lebanese territories, eliminate armed manifestations, and enable the legitimate security forces to carry out their role in full.