The Lebanese Private Sector Network (LPSN) held a press conference titled “Sovereignty, Stability, Prosperity” to present an economic and political roadmap for “Lebanon: The Day After”. The event took place at The Key Apart Hotel, attended by media representatives and members of the network.
During the conference, the network called on the caretaker government to take immediate action supported by urgent international aid to help Lebanon regain full sovereignty. Stability and prosperity, they emphasized, could only be achieved through revitalizing state institutions and rebuilding governance structures. The network insisted on being included in decision-making processes, given its expertise and potential to empower Lebanon.
Commitment to Independence and Prosperity
Rima Freiji, President of the Lebanese Private Sector Network, remarked, “The timing of this conference—just two days before Independence Day—underscores our steadfast commitment to a vision of Lebanon free from the shackles of war, independent from external agendas, and capable of meeting its needs with a productive and innovative economy.” She noted that the network represents a substantial segment of the legitimate private sector, uniting business leaders and professionals from diverse fields who have dedicated their energy to volunteer work and collaboration in addressing Lebanon’s economic collapse and mitigating its negative impacts.
Freiji also announced the “Sovereignty, Stability, Prosperity” campaign, stressing that true prosperity is unattainable without stability, which in turn is impossible without sovereignty.
She further emphasized that “economic diplomacy” is the best route to achieving prosperity, supported by the state, civil society, and the Lebanese diaspora. She reiterated LPSN’s commitment to defending its rights and persevering in its fight for Lebanon and the legitimate private sector. Accordingly, she demanded that the network have a seat at the decision-making table.
Addressing Lebanon’s Critical Condition
Imane Tabbara, Head of the Economic Security Unit, warned against compromising principles, stating, “The Lebanese entity is at risk, and this crisis may be the final blow to Lebanon’s viability as a nation.” She called for immediate action on both political and economic fronts, highlighting:
- Implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolutions 1559, 1680, and 1701
- Enforcement of the 1949 Armistice Agreement
- Protecting Lebanon’s sovereignty through the Lebanese Armed Forces, ensuring that weapons are solely in their hands
- Electing a President of the Republic without delay
- Reposition Lebanon in the Arab and International context
- Developing an international-led “Marshall Plan” for economic recovery
Tabbara underlined the inseparable relationship between economics and politics, advocating for a change in Lebanon’s political, economic, and financial approaches. She noted, “History has shown that internal conflicts often emerge after every Israeli confrontation, underscoring the need to fortify Lebanon’s internal stability.” She declared the network’s readiness to play a national role and dedicate its resources to saving Lebanon.
Harnessing Modern Strategies for Prosperity
George Abboud, a member of the network, revealed that “many institutions, organizations, and research centers have advanced, modern plans aligned with contemporary technological and digital advancements.” He stressed that the time has come for these entities to participate in decision-making processes and activate these studies and plans to lay the foundation for prosperity.
He added, “Our goal is to transform Lebanon into a fertile environment for attracting investments from around the world. This can only be achieved through well-studied plans and creating a nurturing environment for economic development, transparency, and support for all productive sectors.”
Abboud reaffirmed the network’s commitment to “economic diplomacy” as the cornerstone of the upcoming phase. He explained that this approach can advance Lebanon’s national interests through international economic relations—especially with Arab countries—attract investments and support sustainable economic development. He called for collective efforts and unity to build a new, sovereign, stable, and prosperous Lebanon capable of overcoming challenges and seizing available opportunities.
The speakers concluded by answering media questions, outlining the mechanisms for implementing the roadmap, and detailing steps to achieve the desired goals.
For more information on the roadmap, visit: https://www.privatesectorlb.org/