US calls Lebanese leaders to work “urgently” to save its economy

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US calls Lebanese leaders to work “urgently” to save its economy

The United States welcomed the fact that parliamentary elections in Lebanon were held on time and without major security incidents on Friday, but urged the country’s leaders to quickly form a government to resolve the ongoing economic crisis.

Last weekend’s elections resulted in Hezbollah and its allies losing the parliamentary majority.

“We congratulate the Lebanese people for their participation despite the difficult circumstances, we also recognize the important role played by the Lebanese Armed Forces and Internal Security Forces in supporting the process and maintaining security,” said the Department spokesperson. of State Ned Price.

“As Lebanon looks to the future, we urge the country’s elected officials and political leaders to listen to the call of the Lebanese people for change and to work seriously, and urgently, to take the necessary actions to save the economy,” he added.

The United States welcomes the recent Lebanese parliamentary elections, which were held on time without major security incidents. We urge Lebanese leaders to pay attention to the will of the Lebanese people through urgent actions that save the economy and quickly form a government.
– Ned Price (@StateDeptSpox) May 20, 2022

Price said the United States urges the swift formation of a new government capable of doing the “hard work required to restore the confidence of the Lebanese people and the international community.”

After videos reportedly surfaced showing Hezbollah supporters exchanging ballots, snatching more votes and looting polling booths in Baalbek, Price voiced US concerns.

“We share the concerns raised by our partners in the international community regarding allegations of vote-buying, patronage and reports of intimidation,” he said.

The Lebanese government on Friday approved an economic recovery plan designed to lift the country out of a three-year financial meltdown.

The ministers approved the measure in the last session of the cabinet shortly before losing decision-making powers, following the elections, which should designate a new prime minister.

The World Bank called Lebanon’s financial crisis one of the worst the world has seen in over 150 years.