Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam met with Speaker of the House Nabih Berri at Ain al-Tineh on Friday, wrapping up his parliamentary consultations to gather views on government priorities and potential ministerial appointments.

Following their meeting, Salam addressed the media, providing an update on the consultations and outlining his commitment to working around the clock to ensure the swift formation of a new government.

He confirmed that there was broad consensus among the political blocs and independent members of Parliament on the need to work together for the country's recovery.

"There is a general agreement on the importance of rising above differences and cooperating for Lebanon's future," Salam said.

The designated Prime Minister was clear in his message, asserting that no obstacles remain in the way of forming a government.

"The only path forward is through understanding and cooperation," he stated.

Pledging an intense commitment to the task at hand, Salam promised to dedicate all his efforts towards the goal of forming the government.

"I will work 24 hours a day to make this happen. No one will be allowed to obstruct the process, and we will not permit the failure of government formation," he affirmed, highlighting his determination to begin the necessary work to pull Lebanon out of its current crisis.

Salam also emphasized that his discussions with Speaker Berri were guided by the Taif agreement, describing the meeting as part of a shared vision for Lebanon's future.

"We are reading from the same book with Berri," he said, underscoring the importance of cooperation and alignment with constitutional principles.

Looking ahead, Salam confirmed that he would continue to stay in close communication with Speaker Berri. He also announced plans to meet with President of the Republic, Joseph Aoun, later later in the day to brief him on the outcomes of the consultations.

"I will meet with President Aoun this afternoon to update him on the progress. I will not discuss portfolios, names, or any proposals until after this meeting," Salam explained, signaling that decisions regarding the formation of the new government would only come after further consultations with Aoun.

For his part, Berri described his meeting with Salam as "promising."