President Joseph Aoun on Tuesday pledged that Lebanon is pursuing lasting internal security and comprehensive reforms aimed at revitalizing the country’s economy, attracting investment, and restoring trust in state institutions.

Speaking at the Beirut One conference, Aoun stressed that Lebanon is seeking enduring stability, not temporary fixes.

“The security we aim for today is sustainable, not temporary,” he said. “Investors coming to Lebanon must be assured that their protection does not depend on political whims but is firmly grounded in the law.”

Acknowledging the challenges ahead, Aoun noted that reforms face resistance even within the system. “True change affects entrenched interests,” he said. “But we remain steadfast.”

Addressing Lebanon’s friends, investors, and potential partners directly, he said: “Lebanon does not seek sympathy, but trust. It does not wait for charity, but offers opportunity.”

The president outlined the government’s progress on key reforms.

“We have passed legislation to strengthen transparency and accountability and taken serious steps to rebuild state institutions on solid foundations; a state where competence prevails over favoritism and the law over arbitrariness,” he said. “We are activating oversight bodies because a state that holds its officials accountable and protects its resources can safeguard both investors and citizens alike.”

Aoun reaffirmed Lebanon’s openness to regional and international partners.

“Lebanon must reclaim its role as an economic and cultural player in the region, a bridge between East and West, and a platform for collaboration among companies, investors, and development institutions,” he said. “Our openness is not a slogan; it is a concrete commitment to new partnerships, regional markets, and enhancing Lebanon’s place on the regional and global business map.”

Describing Lebanon’s vision for growth, Aoun emphasized the need for public-private partnerships.

“True growth is not achieved by the public sector alone, nor the private sector alone, but through partnership. The state’s role is to enable, set the framework, ensure integrity and competition, and allow the private sector to lead implementation, create jobs, drive innovation, and energize the economy,” he said.

Highlighting Lebanon’s strategic advantages, he noted its geographic location, skilled workforce, and opportunities across multiple sectors. He credited the national vision to Economy Minister Amer Bisat, in coordination with the Economic, Social, and Environmental Council and its president, Charles Arbid, with full government support.

“It is a realistic, actionable vision based on clear data, plans, and timelines,” he said.

Aoun concluded with a direct appeal to investors: “Your presence here today is an investment in stability, in our young talent, and in a future that will be better if we move forward together.”

He also welcomed Saudi participants attending a Lebanese event at this level for the first time in years, as well as the newly appointed U.S. ambassador, Michel Issaa, describing it as a “strong signal of support from President Donald Trump” and expressing gratitude for ongoing U.S. cooperation.

“Beirut One is a first step towards making Beirut first, and Lebanon first,” he said.

The Beirut One Conference, scheduled for November 18-19 at the Beirut Seaside Arena, is organized by the Ministry of Economy and Trade and the Economic, Social, and Environmental Council to attract investment to Lebanon. It is the first event of its kind since the country’s economic collapse six years ago. Around 900 participants have registered, significantly exceeding expectations, with roughly 150 investors traveling specifically for the conference. About 50 companies are expected to take part, including major international firms such as Goldman Sachs, BlackRock, Morgan Stanley, and PIMCO.