Beirut – Lebanon’s Prime Minister Saad Hariri said on Saturday that stability and economic development could not be achieved in the absence of security.

“There can be no stability, economic growth or job opportunities without security,” Hariri said, adding: “Security does not tolerate the duality of arms or power.”

The Lebanese premier’s comments came during Ramadan iftar dinner held by the Future Movement in central Bekaa region.

Touching on the situation in the Bekaa, Hariri said the area was “a symbol of coexistence between all sects and religions, of rejection of discord and extremism and of practicing moderation and dialogue just a few kilometers away from war in Syria.”

“Our duties towards your region are many and we are exerting all efforts to promote development, create jobs for youth, and reform the infrastructure and vital services,” he added.

On the security issue, the prime minister said that the Lebanese Army and security forces were assuming their duties and offering sacrifices, “but this is not enough to save the region and its people from outlaw groups.”

He noted in this regard that the achievement of security cannot tolerate any duality, whether in arms or in power.

Hariri stressed that weapons should be solely in the hands of the state.

“This is our governmental project, and I am sure that you also adhere to it,” he added.

Addressing the Litani River pollution, the prime minister said that “many people dying because of this pollution,” calling municipalities to work with the government to direct sewage pipelines from the river into treatment plants.

He also pledged support for the region to alleviate the burden of hosting Syrian refugees.

“We prepared an integrated plan to turn this crisis into an opportunity and improve the infrastructure and public services in your region,” Hariri stated.