(UPDATE) Mikati addresses current crisis, displaced challenges with Grand Serail visitors

Caretaker Prime Minister, Najib Mikati, on Tuesday convened a series of economic and financial meetings at the Grand Serail to tackle pressing issues stemming from the Israeli aggression on Lebanon and its resulting displacement crisis. In a meeting with a broad delegation from the Economic Bodies, led by former minister Mohammad Choucair, Mikati stated, 'We have faced difficult circumstances, and at times our strength lay in our weakness. Today, however, our strength lies in our unity. We hope to end this aggression as quickly as possible. At this stage, we must all collaborate and explore ways to work together to keep the economic cycle alive amid our struggles.' In turn, Choucair expressed gratitude to Mikati for his tremendous efforts with the ministers, affirming that the Economic Bodies stand in solidarity with the government. 'In previous crises, we noted a decline of 30 to 40 percent; today, I can confirm that the economy is nearly at zero, except for some food-related businesses. In the private s ector, we are striving to endure this difficult phase,' Choucair said as emphasizing the dire state of the economy. Choucair highlighted two key points discussed: the urgent need for the election of a new president and the importance of national unity. 'We cannot wait for the country to burn before electing a president. Let's set aside personal interests to save Lebanon,' he added. Mikati also met with a delegation from the Syndicate of Certified Public Accountants, led by President Elie Aboud, alongside Environment Minister Nasser Yassin. During the meeting, Mikati sought assistance in overseeing the auditing of all incoming aid, whether in kind or financial, and emphasized the need for transparent weekly and monthly reports on this support. He also requested suggestions from the syndicate, highlighting the importance of improving tax collection rather than introducing new taxes. Following the meeting, Aboud stated that the Prime Minister had invited them to discuss national issues and the syndicate's ro le during this critical phase. He noted the importance of active participation in monitoring international and private aid and stated, 'We will contribute to the oversight efforts in a national capacity.' Aboud also mentioned the need to revitalize tax collection mechanisms and expressed hope for an end to the war in Lebanon. In another meeting, Mikati discussed security threats along the Lebanese coastline with Minister of Public Works and Transport Ali Hamieh. Hamieh addressed concerns regarding Israeli threats to the areas along the southern coast, which are residential and home to commercial and fishing ports. Hamieh also emphasized the need to monitor the situation in coordination with the Lebanese Army and UNIFIL forces, highlighting its sovereignty and economic implications. Mikati then met with Labor Minister, Mustafa Bayram, with whom he reviewed the situation of displaced persons and the broader national context, stressing the importance of solidarity in facing Israeli aggression. Additionally , Mikati met with Youth and Sports Minister, George Kallas, who briefed the Prime Minister on the status of sports facilities and the ministry's role in disaster response and providing assistance outside hosting centers. Finally, Mikati welcomed Lebanese University President, Bassam Badran, who discussed preparations to resume studies at the university in light of recent decisions by the Minister of Education. Source: National news agency - Lebanon