New leadership offers new hope for Lebanon

Minister Eide met Lebanon's Prime Minister designate Nawaf Salam in Beirut today.

Lebanon now has an opportunity to put a very demanding period, with internal political turmoil and a war between Hezbollah and Israel, behind.

After more than two years of caretaker government and parliamentary wrangling, Lebanon has a new president, Joseph Aoun, and a prime minister designate, Nawaf Salam. Together they have started the process of forming a new government.

‘The election of the President of Lebanon and the strong support for Lebanon's new leaders reflect a clear desire for change and reform in Lebanon. This is important for the stability of the entire Middle East. It gives hope to many Lebanese,’ said Mr Eide.

Prime Minister Salam is the former head of the International Court of Justice and has also served as Lebanon's UN ambassador. During today's talks, Eide congratulated Lebanon's Prime Minister designate Nawaf Salam on his appointment, emphasised continued Norwegian support for the country, and solidarity with the Lebanese people who have suffered so much.

‘Lebanon is facing major challenges. The country is hosting many refugees from neighbouring Syria. As a result of the conflict between Israel and Hizballah, there is widespread destruction in the country. Many Lebanese are still displaced from their homes and have limited access to healthcare, water and sanitation services, as well as education. Norway will continue to be a provider of humanitarian support, in addition to supporting the work on reforms and follow-up of the ceasefire agreement with Israel,’ said Eide.

During his visit to Lebanon, the foreign minister also met his Lebanese colleague, Foreign Minister Bou Habib, and Speaker of the Parliament, Nabih Berri. Topics of discussion included the ceasefire agreement with Israel, rebuilding the country after the war with Israel and strengthening the state, as well as efforts to implement economic reforms to advance from the worst economic crisis in the country's history.

‘It is positive that the ceasefire between Hizballah and Israel is largely holding. It is very important that it is followed up, and it is high time that UN Resolution 1701 is implemented. In addition, the country's economic situation must improve. The World Bank estimates that the war with Israel has cost Lebanon USD 8.5 billion in destruction and economic losses. The task facing the country's leaders is enormous,’ said Mr Eide.