LeadersClub presents two reports
to President Joseph Aoun

Plans for economic revival

and economic reconstruction

A delegation from LeadersClub – by Lebanon Opportunities, presented President Joseph Aoun its two flagship reports, ‘Relaunch and Revival’, the alternative comprehensive economic plan for Lebanon, and ‘Economic Reconstruction’, a proposal to address economic promises made to Lebanon in the context of the tripartite Framework Agreement.

LeadersClub, whose members collectively a significant portion of the country’s physical and human capital, has endorsed the demands made recently by economic and business such as chambers of commerce, industrial and trade associations, tourism organizations, syndicates of engineers and contractors, and various business associations – but also came not just with problems, but also with comprehensive proposals for solutions to address current challenges.

Remarks to the President
Addressing the President directly, the delegation said the initiative is fully ready to cooperate in developing these proposals and to stand by him whenever any economic or livelihood file is discussed. The delegation noted that it has never before seen from the Presidency such openness and willingness to build bridges with the private sector, and expressed confidence that this cooperation will continue and grow.

The President
President Aoun welcomed the delegation and underscored the importance of the private sector as the backbone of the national economy. He said he is convinced that Lebanon needs security and political stability rather than external aid, since both support economic growth. He reviewed the regional and international landscape and the developments likely to shape the coming phase. He stressed the importance of maintaining internal cohesion and avoiding any domestic conflict. The President stressed the need to seize the opportunities now available to Lebanon. He observed that the country is rich in its people, including thinkers, innovators, and entrepreneurs who can turn crises into opportunities.

Achievements
The President listed the government’s achievements across various sectors since 2025. He noted that the war may have slowed some of these efforts but has not stopped them. As one example, he pointed to Lebanon’s inclusion in the network of ports linked to the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). He also acknowledged that several additional steps must be taken in the coming phase. He said the economic crisis stems from the war “imposed upon us,” from the broader Iran-U.S. conflict, and from internal challenges. He said his visits to Arab countries aimed to restore Lebanon’s place within the Arab fold, a goal he considers achieved, and that efforts continue to strengthen relations with sister nations in all fields. He described the measures individual ministers are taking within their portfolios to revitalize the State’s administrative apparatus. He also highlighted the shift toward digitalization within General Security and various ministries and departments. He expressed optimism about launching an electronic identification (e-ID) project by the end of this year, which should ease access to government, banking, and administrative services.

Still to do
The President underscored the need to enact a law addressing the ‘financial gap’, and said the issue must be approached without populism or personal interest. He also stressed the importance of reconstructing the South, which he identified as a core component of the Lebanese demands in the Framework Agreement. He said extending the authority of the State is not limited to placing arms solely under its control. It also means establishing security, securing the economic and social well-being of southerners, and providing alternatives, whether through reconstruction or by strengthening economic activity in their regions. He observed that the big problem lies with those who oppose the logic of the State. “We heard them attacking the army and the security forces. One cannot claim to be a proponent of sovereignty or profess a love for Lebanon while simultaneously criticizing the army and security forces, institutions that work to maintain the country’s security and stability,” he said.

The President urged the delegation to keep its faith and confidence in the country and to work together toward its revival, “for this is a shared responsibility that rests upon us all,” he said.