The nomination of Judge Nawaf Salam, President of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), as Prime Minister on Monday, with a majority of 84 votes, drew widespread messages of congratulations and optimism among Lebanese and international leaders.
The European Union Ambassador to Lebanon, Sandra De Waele, expressed optimism about Salam’s designation, emphasizing its potential to shape Lebanon’s future. “We congratulate Nawaf Salam on his designation as Prime Minister. It is encouraging to see progress in Lebanon. We hope for the swift formation of a government to launch urgent reforms and revitalize state institutions for the benefit of all Lebanese,” stated De Waele on X.
Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati extended his full support to Salam, sharing his commitment to the formation of a government that meets the aspirations of the Lebanese people. “I have contacted the designated Prime Minister, Nawaf Salam, and wished him success in his new mission. This government is expected to address the aspirations of the Lebanese people, who long for a state that strengthens its authority across all Lebanese territories,” Mikati wrote on X, expressing hope that this new phase would bring peace and prosperity to Lebanon.
Former PM Saad Hariri viewed his appointment as a pivotal moment for the country. “This is an additional opportunity that complements the election of General Joseph Aoun as President. We hope all forces unite under the umbrella of legitimacy, responsible for protecting everyone and building the constitutional framework,” Hariri wrote on his X account.
MP Ashraf Rifi, whose name had been circulated as a potential PM, emphasized the importance of collaboration between the new Prime Minister and President Aoun. “We look forward to the formation of a rescue and reform government for a free, sovereign, independent and thriving Lebanon,” Rifi wrote on X.
Former President of the Republic Michel Sleiman expressed his confidence in Salam's leadership, stating, “Salam, who has had a distinguished career in diplomacy and international law, having served as Lebanon’s Ambassador to the United Nations and as President of the ICJ, is regarded for his wisdom, competence and national commitment. Many view his appointment as a promising step toward rebuilding Lebanon’s institutions and restoring stability in the country.”
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