On Friday morning, President Joseph Aoun held his first official meeting as President of the Republic with caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati at Baabda Palace.
Following the meeting, Mikati announced that a comprehensive overview of the government's activities had been presented to the new President, and discussions were held regarding the future steps for the country.
On the other hand, both leaders addressed the situation in southern Lebanon, particularly the need for the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from the occupied border villages and the cessation of their violations within Lebanese territory.
As a result, President Joseph Aoun tasked the current government with continuing its duties until a new Cabinet is formed.
“We must adhere to the constitutional procedures to initiate parliamentary consultations,” clarified Mikati, dismissing the likelihood of a “package deal.” He went on to say that “the primary objective is to disarm the factions” in southern Lebanon and to “facilitate the deployment of the Lebanese Army and ensure full state control across the country.”
On Thursday, President Joseph Aoun secured 99 votes in the second round of the presidential election held in Parliament, ending a two-year vacancy at the helm of the Lebanese State.
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