Lebanon's newly appointed Prime Minister Nawaf Salam held his cabinet's first session at Baabda Palace on February 11, setting out an agenda focused on rebuilding trust and implementing critical reforms.

In his opening address, Salam acknowledged the deep challenges facing Lebanon, stating that "regaining the trust of our citizens, who have endured successive crises, is paramount."

The session established a ministerial committee to draft the government's policy statement, marking a significant step after months of political deadlock between the different factions in the country.

The Prime Minister highlighted the pressing issue of youth emigration, noting that 69% of young Lebanese are seeking to leave the country.

While outlining plans to create employment opportunities, specific details remain under development.

Salam defended his decision to form a technocratic cabinet that excludes traditional political parties like the Free Patriotic Movement and Marada movement.

"I insisted during my meetings with political blocs that ministers should be non-partisan whilst maintaining broad parliamentary acceptance," he said. This approach, he argued, was essential to ensure his government could secure parliamentary confidence.

Addressing the southern border situation, Salam reaffirmed Lebanon's commitment to UN Resolution 1701 and emphasized the country's compliance with international agreements.

The Prime Minister's vision for state authority was noteworthy. He mentioned the necessity of extending legitimate state control "from the al-Kabir river to Naqoura," a clear reference to the government's ambition to assert sovereignty over all Lebanese territory through official state institutions.

Salam’s cabinet faces formidable challenges. Chief among these is implementing crucial reforms required to unlock billions in international donor funding, managing the delicate ceasefire with Israel, and embarking on the massive task of national reconstruction.

The government's next cabinet session is scheduled for February 13, where further details of the ministerial statement are expected to emerge. The document will serve as the administration's roadmap and basis for seeking parliamentary confidence.

Salam's leadership style, evident in this first session, suggests a departure from traditional Lebanese political practices due to his background in the international judiciary.

His note on non-partisan expertise over political allegiance, coupled with a focus on tangible results rather than rhetoric, indicates a potential shift in governance approach.

Former Prime Minister Najib Mikati expressed full support for Lebanon's newly formed government on February 12, stating at Baabda Palace that "it is good for Lebanon and good for every Lebanese citizen."

Former Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati expressed support for the new government following his meeting with President Joseph Aoun at Baabda Palace on February 11, while addressing key developments on the southern border.

"We discussed current conditions, particularly developments in the south and the approaching Israeli withdrawal on February 18," Mikati said after the meeting. He conveyed optimism about the new administration, stating he hopes "the new government will be able to implement its promises and fulfill its oath of office."

In a strong show of support for the incoming administration, Mikati declared: "We fully support the government because it is good for Lebanon and good for every Lebanese citizen, and we hope the coming days will bring more stability and prosperity."