Lebanon appeals for firm state governing to battle terrorism

Lebanon's Prime Minister Tammam Salam said Wednesday that Lebanon is in the heart of the battle against terrorism, emphasizing the necessity to elect a president as soon as possible.

Salam made the remarks in a speech during the launching of official talks over the national plan to fight terrorism held at the Grand Serail, adding that Lebanon is directly involved with the "reduction of violent extremism that has made our region and the world a bloody panel."

He noted that the international strategy to fight terrorism lies within two approaches as global and local, respectively referring to fighting terrorism on all levels and fighting it within each country.

Concerning the current presidential vacuum in Lebanon, Salam called for "regularity of the government institutions," and ending "the current imbalances in it."

"Confronting extremism, terrorism and violence in Lebanon requires strengthening the structure of the state through," he said, adding that the first step should be taken through the election of president.

He also called for "the restoration of democratic mechanisms that allow accountability, renewal of the political elites and enhancing participation in governance."

The prime minister also emphasized enhancing the public administrations and promoting the rule of law, as "any defect in the application of justice is the shortest path to extremism and terrorism." Endit