NNA - Industry Minister Joe Issa El Khoury affirmed that the issue of restricting arms to the Lebanese army remains one of the most prominent obstacles to economic development in Lebanon, expressing his regret for the delay in implementing this step, as it hinders the return of investments despite the interest of Lebanon's friends, international institutions, and Lebanese expatriates.

He said, "The government has committed to certain reforms, a large part of which are political and administrative, but it has also committed to security reforms related to arms exclusivity."

Issa El Khoury's words came during his participation in a panel discussion, entitled "Entrepreneurship and Defining a New Economic System in Lebanon," within the framework of the "Path to Statehood" conference organized by the Lebanese National Congress.

"The Lebanese people are among the most globalized and integrated with other civilizations in the world, with Lebanese spread across more than 130 countries," the Minister went on, considering that for this reason, "the state's policies must be based on building international friendships and openness to all, politically and investment-wise, away from the logic of isolation."

"There is a large part of expatriates of Lebanese descent, numbering over 15 million around the world, who represent a tremendous potential that can be attracted and encouraged to engage in investment in the financial and economic sectors in Lebanon," he added, noting that "Lebanon must therefore remain open to all, both politically and investment-wise."

Referring to members of the Lebanese Diaspora, who are in constant and direct contact with their families in Lebanon, the Minister considered it illogical to isolate them electorally or prevent them from voting in the towns to which they are connected, and instead associate them with constituencies that have no connection to their roots or social presence.

Touching on automation in government administrative work, Issa El-Khoury stressed that "all ministers are aware of the importance of its implementation, and this is already evident in several ministries and public administrations, given its direct impact on two main axes: reducing corruption, reducing communication between employees and citizens, and facilitating access to information and accelerating the completion of transactions."

"Automation allows for the updating and periodic renewal of databases in ministries, which contributes to obtaining data related to the sectors concerned by these ministries," he maintained, noting that he has discussed with the Economy and Trade Minister the development of the "One Stop Shop" concept to facilitate procedures for investors.

Moving on, the Industry Minister indicated that he is a member of the committee tasked with following up on the issue of the digital identity currently being implemented, noting that "within two years, most Lebanese are expected to have a digital identity (e-ID) that will allow them to identify themselves electronically in a secure manner."

He said: "The success of this project will not be complete merely by issuing a digital ID. Rather, it requires its acceptance by government departments, institutions, and private organizations. This will not succeed without automation, enabling citizens to complete their transactions electronically, without the need for physical attendance or paperwork."

The Minister also highlighted the pivotal role of the private sector in economic development, noting that "this sector was the primary driver of prosperity in Lebanon, while the state's role was limited to the legislative and regulatory framework that enables the private sector to operate." He added, "This is what must happen today, so the state would be protecting the most vulnerable citizens and ensuring their access to essential services at reduced prices and high quality."

Issa El-Khoury highlighted the need to prioritize Lebanon's interests, first and foremost, which leads to establishing true citizenship and strengthening national belonging. "Let us eliminate the culture of war and, in its place, establish a culture of peace, work, and development," he underlined.