Mikati Holds Key Ministerial Meetings on Reconstruction and Public Facilities.

Beirut: Caretaker Prime Minister, Najib Mikati, on Wednesday convened a series of ministerial meetings at the Grand Serail focusing on current affairs, government matters, and cooperation with the World Bank. The talks included discussions with Deputy Prime Minister, Saadeh Al-Shami, addressing critical national issues. According to National News Agency - Lebanon, in a meeting with Caretaker Public Works and Transportation Minister Dr. Ali Hamieh, the Prime Minister reviewed essential matters, primarily the legal and operational frameworks for debris removal and reconstruction. Dr. Hamieh noted that the focus was on developing a legal and practical framework and assessing costs for debris clearance and reconstruction based on various funding models. The discussions also covered operations at public facilities, including airports and seaports, ensuring they are governed by Lebanese law and operate effectively. Dr. Hamieh emphasized the continuous monitoring by the Ministry of Public Works and Transportation to keep these facilities fully functional for all Lebanese citizens. Prime Minister Mikati also met with Caretaker Telecommunications Minister, Johnny Corm, and Imad Kreidieh, Director-General of the state telecom operator Ogero, to discuss the status of the telecommunications sector. Additionally, Lebanese University President, Dr. Bassam Badran, briefed the Prime Minister on the institution's conditions, noting damage to buildings in the Hadath complex and the successful commencement of the academic year remotely in 16 faculties. Mikati further engaged with MP Ahmad Al-Khair to discuss recent developments and service-related matters. A delegation from the Customs Clearance Agents' Syndicate in the Al-Masnaa region, led by Department Head Monzer Al-Ajami, sought Mikati's support in securing work rights at Beirut and Tripoli ports. Al-Ajami highlighted the impact of Israel's blockade on the area, which had closed the borders around Al-Masnaa. The Prime Minister responded positively to their concerns and promised to pursue the matter. MP Bilal Al-Hachemi and Cabinet Secretary-General Judge Mahmoud Makieh also attended these discussions. Furthermore, Mikati received a delegation from the Lebanon Youth Movement and the Civil Emergency Authority, led by Eli Saliba, with whom he tackled community initiatives.