In a historic moment for Lebanon, President Joseph Aoun delivered a powerful inaugural speech, outlining a bold vision for the country's future—one of unity, justice, and renewal.

"I am honored to be elected by the esteemed members of Parliament, and this is the greatest medal I can receive," in his first address to Parliament following his swearing-in as Lebanon's new president.

Aoun set the tone for what he promised would be a transformative presidency, framing Lebanon’s rich history and the resilience of its people as key elements of the nation's identity.

"Lebanon is ancient in history. Courage is our main characteristic, and our strength lies in our adaptability. No matter how much we disagree, in times of hardship, we embrace one another. If one of us is broken, we all break," he emphasized, highlighting the unity that has sustained Lebanon through turbulent times.

The president stressed the urgent need for political reform in Lebanon, stating that "the political performance in Lebanon needs to be changed."

"My pledge to the Lebanese, wherever they may be, is that today marks the beginning of a new phase in Lebanon's history. I will be the first to preserve the National Pact and the Charter of National Accord. I will exercise the full powers of the President as a fair mediator between institutions."

Aoun’s vision for Lebanon's future is firmly grounded in the rule of law.

"If we want to build a nation, we must all stand united under the law and judiciary,” he said, reaffirming his commitment to a fair and transparent legal system.

He further emphasized that "interfering in the judiciary is prohibited.”

“There will be no immunity for criminals or corrupt individuals, nor room for mafias, drug trafficking, or money laundering."

Looking ahead, Aoun outlined key priorities for his administration, starting with judicial reform.

"My term will be characterized by cooperation with the new government to pass the judicial independence law," he said, adding, "I will challenge any law that contradicts the constitution."

He also expressed his intention to expedite the formation of a government, announcing that he would call for parliamentary consultations as soon as possible to select a Prime Minister who would be a partner, not an adversary.

Aoun’s government plans also include a comprehensive restructuring of the state apparatus.

"We will rotate senior positions within the state and restructure public administration," he confirmed, reiterating the state's exclusive authority over military matters.

On the issue of security, Aoun affirmed his commitment to strengthening the Lebanese army’s capabilities.

"We will invest in the military to secure our borders, stabilize the south, demarcate our borders in the east and north, combat terrorism, implement international resolutions, and prevent Israeli attacks on Lebanon,” he pledged. "I will work to confirm the state's right to monopolize the carrying of arms."

He also stressed the importance of strengthening Lebanon’s security forces as a cornerstone of law enforcement: "I will work to activate the role of security forces as an essential tool to maintain security and enforce laws."

The president did not shy away from addressing Lebanon's foreign policy, calling for a shift in approach to regional relations.

"It is time to invest in Lebanon through our foreign relations, not to rely on foreign powers to gain strength over each other," Aoun stated.

“We reject Palestinian settlement," he affirmed, underscoring Lebanon's commitment to securing the refugee camps.

Additionally, Aoun highlighted the need for constructive dialogue with Syria, particularly concerning unresolved issues such as missing persons and Syrian refugees.

"We will pursue a policy of positive neutrality, only exporting the best products and industries, and attracting tourists," he said. "We will start a serious and friendly dialogue with the Syrian state to discuss all bilateral relations and pending issues, particularly the cases of missing persons and Syrian refugees."