Prime Minister Nawaf Salam underscored the strategic importance of Lebanon’s official border crossings during a visit to the Beqaa Governorate on Thursday, describing them as “the mirror of Lebanese sovereignty” and the “first line of defense for internal stability.”
Touring the Masnaa border crossing, Salam was briefed by General Security personnel on the current security procedures and logistical operations in place. He emphasized the need for structured and secure management at the crossing, calling for its transformation from a vulnerability into a symbol of state authority. “Reform begins here,” he said, “with the state’s full restoration of the management of its borders, turning them into legitimate gates of legality and order, not an outlet for chaos and abuse.”
To that end, the Prime Minister revealed that work is underway to install advanced scanning equipment to improve the inspection of goods and bolster land-based export operations through transparent and regulated mechanisms.
In Baalbeck, Salam chaired a meeting of the Sub-Security Council at the Saray, where discussions centered on maintaining security in the Baalbeck-Hermel Governorate and ensuring the smooth conduct of upcoming municipal elections. He urged citizens to take part in the electoral process, stressing that local development depends on voter engagement and the credibility of the vote. “The people will be the decision-makers,” he stated, “and we must guarantee the transparency and integrity of the electoral process.”
The Prime Minister also reiterated the government’s commitment to launching a development plan for the Beqaa region and reaffirmed the state’s interest in addressing its longstanding challenges.
From Zahle, Salam called on voters to actively participate in municipal elections, highlighting their role in shaping local governance. In a meeting with MPs from the central and western Beqaa, the Litani River crisis featured prominently. Declaring it an environmental and economic priority, Salam announced the formation of a ministerial committee to address pollution in the river. “The Beqaa is Lebanon’s food basket,” he said, affirming that “we want it to remain a source of nourishment, not toxins.”
Concluding his tour in Rayak, the Prime Minister, accompanied by Defense Minister Michel Menassa, Interior Minister Ahmad al-Hajjar, Public Works Minister Fayez Rasamny and Army Chief of Staff Major General Hassan Odeh, visited the Lebanese Army’s coordination office.
There, he was briefed on military efforts to control border crossings and combat smuggling, particularly through coordination with Syrian authorities. Salam also pledged to advocate for the fair treatment of military personnel and retirees, promising justice and parity across public sector roles.
From his side, Minister Menassa commended the visit, noting that Salam is the first Prime Minister to inspect the Rayak base, and voiced confidence in his support for the military.
“Those in uniform are the ones who protect Lebanon,” Menassa said, “and I trust this government will not let them down.”
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