Justice Minister Adel Nassar received a delegation from the European People’s Party (EPP) at his office, where discussions focused on the reform and administrative measures currently underway at the ministry.

The delegation commended Nassar for his reformist efforts and praised the achievements made so far in Lebanon. Members noted that this is the first time they had heard a Lebanese justice minister speak in favor of protecting freedom of expression, press freedom, and the right of every citizen to legal defense, highlighting his role in overseeing investigations into the Beirut port explosion. They also expressed their willingness to support initiatives facilitating judicial cooperation between Lebanon and European countries.

Minister Nassar briefed the delegation on measures taken since assuming office, particularly regarding judicial appointments and organizational reforms. He explained that, with these reforms largely completed, courts are now functioning more effectively, resolving many of the delays and operational obstacles that had previously plagued the judiciary due to vacancies and incomplete judicial bodies.

He also highlighted efforts to implement the requirements of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to remove Lebanon from its grey list of countries at risk of money laundering and financial crimes. Nassar updated the delegation on ongoing legal reforms, including amendments to commercial and criminal procedure laws and revisions to penal codes. Additionally, he discussed measures to reduce overcrowding in Roumieh Prison by expediting trials, noting that the number of detainees awaiting trial has begun to decline within less than a month since court operations resumed at the facility.

Regarding the longstanding case of Syrian detainees in Lebanese prisons, Minister Nassar spoke about an agreement drafted by the Ministry of Justice, which is being presented to Syrian authorities for discussion as a potential solution to the issue.