President of National Dialogue Party and MP Fouad Makhzoumi met with President of the Republic General Joseph Aoun in Baabda at a critical juncture for Lebanon.
Makhzoumi stressed that sovereignty is indivisible and that decisions on war and peace, as well as foreign policy, must rest exclusively with the state and its constitutional institutions. He reiterated his full confidence in the Lebanese Army and its leadership, describing it as the unifying national institution and the only legitimate authority mandated to defend the country and extend state authority over all Lebanese territory.
He also emphasized the need to fully implement the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement signed by the Lebanese government on November 27, 2024, within a clear and specific timeframe, in order to preserve stability, strengthen state sovereignty, and prevent any slide toward escalation.
Makhzoumi called for the regular functioning of constitutional institutions and the prevention of any institutional vacuum. He also stressed that parliamentary elections must be held on schedule, while ensuring that Lebanese expatriates have the right to vote for all 128 members of Parliament and that the megacenter voting system is adopted to facilitate broader participation and greater transparency.
On the economic front, he underscored the need to amend the law governing the restructuring of the banking sector in a manner that protects depositors’ rights and restores confidence. He also called for the withdrawal of the draft financial gap law and its redrafting in accordance with international standards, enabling Lebanon to reach an agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
He stressed that reform must begin with restructuring, streamlining, and modernizing the public sector, including public institutions and state-owned enterprises, before imposing any additional taxes or burdens on citizens.
Development, he added, must be equitable and balanced. Rebuilding southern Lebanon is a priority, while reinforcing buildings at risk of collapse in Tripoli and investing in the North and Beirut are equally important national responsibilities.
Makhzoumi concluded by emphasizing that Lebanon needs one state, one decision-making authority, and a clear, time-bound roadmap to reassert sovereignty, restore stability, and pave the way for economic recovery.