Mikati holds strategic meetings on education, diplomatic efforts, and crisis management

Caretaker Prime Minister, Najib Mikati, on Thursday held two educational meetings at the Grand Serail, with the participation of Caretaker Minister of Education, Abbas Halabi. The first meeting involved the Federation of Private Universities, while the second gathered the Executive Committee of the Lebanese University's Full-Time Faculty Association, alongside the university's president, Bassam Badran. Following the meetings, Minister Halabi stated, "The Prime Minister, as part of his consultations with various professional and representative bodies, met today with the Federation of Universities in Lebanon, led by Father Salim Daccache. Discussions addressed national issues, particularly how universities can contribute during this critical phase in Lebanon's history. The Prime Minister also explored how the state can assist these universities during the current crisis." Regarding the second meeting, Halabi added, "In the same context, the Prime Minister met with a delegation from the Lebanese University Fa culty Association, in the presence of its president, Dr. Badran. We discussed ways the Lebanese University can contribute. The main concern was ensuring the university reopens its classes and welcomes students, following a census of displaced students, faculty, and staff. Dr. Badran promised to issue the necessary circulars within two days to reassure students and faculty about resuming classes." Father Daccache, President of the Federation of Universities in Lebanon, expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for his support. "Universities have been a beacon of hope in these difficult times. We are committed to ensuring this academic year is not lost, despite the challenges. It's crucial that every student achieves their goals this year,' Father Daccache said. Moreover, he highlighted initiatives such as providing internet access for students and called on the government for financial support to sustain educational institutions and preserve Lebanon's intellectual capital. In a separate meeting, Prime Mini ster Mikati met with Foreign Affairs Minister Abdullah Bou Habib, with whom he discussed ongoing diplomatic efforts to halt Israeli aggression. Additionally, Mikati met with Tourism Minister Walid Nassar to discuss current developments. The PM also received the UN Resident Coordinator for Lebanon, Imran Riza, with whom he reviewed coordination between the government and UN agencies, particularly in humanitarian and health services for displaced persons. In another meeting, Beirut Governor Marwan Abboud briefed the Prime Minister on efforts to manage the ongoing crisis, including street violations and waste management ahead of winter. Abboud emphasized the need for swift removal of waste to prevent blocked drainage systems, noting that preventive work had already begun. PM Mikati also met with MP Ahmad Khair, with whom he discussed general developments and received a delegation from the "Irada" Association, led by Vice President Louay Muls, who provided an update on the association's work in supporting dis placed persons during the ongoing crisis. Source: National News Agency - Lebanon