Beirut: Prime Minister Nawaf Salam on Monday engaged in a series of strategic discussions with former President Michel Sleiman, a delegation from the French Development Agency (AFD), and officials from the Lebanese American University (LAU) at the Grand Serail.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, former President Sleiman and Prime Minister Salam focused their discussions on national and regional developments. Sleiman expressed his appreciation for Salam's unwavering commitment to the Taif Accord, emphasizing the importance of full sovereignty and state authority over all Lebanese territories. He advocated for voluntary disarmament in favor of empowering the Lebanese Army, suggesting that relying solely on state arms could lead to unity and strength after decades of unsuccessful reliance on multiple factions' weaponry.
The meeting with the AFD delegation marked a celebration of 25 years of collaboration. Prime Minister Salam lauded France's ongoing support and reiterated Lebanon's dedication to fostering a productive and sustainable economy, driven by the private sector and rooted in sound governance.
In a separate engagement, Salam met with a delegation from the Lebanese American University, headed by President Dr. Shouki Abdallah. The group extended an invitation to the Prime Minister for the centennial celebration of the LAU Medical Center scheduled for December 9. They also briefed him on various academic and development initiatives, including the expansion plans for the university's New York campus.