From New York, where he is attending the UN General Assembly, President Joseph Aoun encouraged Lebanese expatriates to take part in the legislative elections, scheduled for May 2026. The remarks came during a gathering organized in his honor by Lebanon’s embassy in Washington and its Permanent Mission to the UN.

In his address, Aoun stressed that Lebanon cannot recover without the direct involvement of its expatriates, both economically and politically.

“Voting is not just dropping a piece of paper into a ballot box. It is the hope for a better future. You must take part, whatever the circumstances. It is your right, but above all, your responsibility,” he said.

No Renewal Without the Diaspora

Speaking before an audience of businesspeople, doctors, engineers, association representatives, and members of the Task Force for Lebanon, the president highlighted the vital role played by the diaspora in every crisis the country has endured.

“You are Lebanon’s ambassadors. You have never abandoned it. During the economic crises, the pandemic, the port explosion, or armed conflicts, you were always there,” he said.

Reviewing the reforms since he took office in February, Aoun cited several milestones: the timely adoption of the 2026 draft budget, judicial and diplomatic appointments, the reopening of long-untouched corruption files, and a framework to address the depositors’ issue.

“Lebanon is not bankrupt. It falters at times, but it does not fall. And it will not fall as long as you remain by its side,” he affirmed.

Meeting with FIFA President

On the sidelines of his visit, Aoun also met FIFA President Gianni Infantino and his Lebanese-born wife, Lina. Infantino discussed the possibility of hosting a major sporting event in Lebanon, underscoring football’s importance in Lebanese social life.