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Hariri: Economy, Electricity Are Government’s Priorities | ASHARQ AL-AWSAT English Archive 2005 -2017
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Media ID: 55376020
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Lebanese Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri meets with a delegation from Lebanese businessmen (Dalati & Nohra)


Beirut – Lebanese Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri said that after the completion of drafting a new electoral law, the government’s priorities would focus on the economic situation and the reform of the electricity sector.

He noted in this regard that the privatization of some sectors was the only solution to provide citizens with better services.

Before heading to Saudi Arabia to perform the Umrah, the Lebanese prime minister welcomed on Wednesday a delegation of the Lebanese Businessmen Associations, headed by Fouad Zmokhol.

In remarks during the meeting, he said that the government was seeking to bolster the contribution of the private sector to the country’s economy, by encouraging private initiatives.

Hariri also stressed the need to reform the electricity sector, which is currently afflicting the state with heavy losses. He noted in this regard that the government would launch projects to renovate power plants and build the proper infrastructure for water, roads, and communications.

Asked about the Gulf crisis with Qatar, the Lebanese premier said: “Lebanon should not interfere in the emerging dispute between GCC states and Egypt on one side and Qatar on the other side.”

“Lebanon adheres to positive neutrality towards all Arab states,” he added.

He also underlined the importance to establish excellent relations with the different Arab countries.

On a different note, Hariri stressed the need to complete the work on drafting a new electoral law and move forward towards resolving pressing economic issues.