Mikati Engages Diplomats and Ministers at Grand Serail Amid Crisis.

Beirut: Caretaker Prime Minister, Najib Mikati, conducted a series of meetings at the Grand Serail with diplomats, ministers, and civil society groups, focusing on humanitarian aid, disaster management, and other critical issues amidst the ongoing conflict with Israel. Mikati's discussions aimed to address the multifaceted challenges Lebanon is facing, particularly in light of the Israeli aggression. According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Mikati initiated his meetings with Serbia's Ambassador to Lebanon, Milan Trojanovic, where they explored the general situation and bilateral relations between the two nations. This was followed by discussions with Chile's Ambassador, Marcos Correa Letelier, emphasizing the strengthening of ties between Lebanon and Chile amid regional turmoil. In meetings with senior ministers, Mikati received updates on pressing domestic issues exacerbated by the conflict. George Kallas, the Caretaker Minister of Youth and Sports, briefed Mikati on the establishment of a shelter at B eirut Sports City for displaced individuals, highlighting coordination efforts with local authorities to ensure optimal services during these challenging times. Minister of Agriculture, Abbas al-Hajj Hassan, highlighted the war's impact on Lebanon's agricultural sector and the looming threat to food security. He expressed concern over the significant displacement of Lebanese farmers and the substantial losses in agricultural land. Efforts to expand agricultural areas in safer regions were also discussed. Mustafa Bayram, the Caretaker Minister of Labor, reported on Lebanon's advocacy in international forums, particularly the complaint filed with the International Labour Organization regarding Israeli violations. Bayram stressed Lebanon's adherence to UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which calls for a ceasefire and an end to hostilities. Discussions also included efforts to enhance government efficiency amid the crisis, as reported by Caretaker Minister of Administrative Development, Najla Riachi, who fo cused on automating attendance systems in public administration. Finance Minister Dr. Youssef Khalil updated Mikati on public finances, emphasizing revenue generation and expenditure control during Lebanon's financial crisis. Governor of Beirut, Marwan Abboud, discussed plans for new shelters following the evacuation of schools used as temporary shelters. Mikati also engaged with the National Moderation Bloc and Akkar's Union of Municipalities, addressing concerns over displacement and infrastructure needs. Ahmad al-Mir, the Union leader, highlighted the challenges posed by the sudden influx of displaced persons and the recent attack on Ain Yacoub. In discussions with Claudeine Aoun, head of the National Commission for Lebanese Women's Affairs, Mikati explored integrating gender perspectives into the national response plan. Aoun stressed the Commission's commitment to advancing UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on women, peace, and security, despite the ongoing war. Finally, Mikati met with Mohammad Bad ran, head of the Court of Audit, to discuss financial oversight and accountability measures amid Lebanon's crisis.