Mikati: Lebanese strength lies in Arab, int'l ties

Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati on Thursday reiterated that Lebanon has always derived its strength from Arabs and its international relations. According to the Lebanese National News Agency (NNA), the Premier while capitalizing on domestic political stability and security, said that both create firm basis for the success of developmental plans and goals. "Our government has already announced and intends to announce future reform steps which entail the all support possible," he said in remarks he made during the opening session of a Saudi-Lebanese economic forum which commenced here this morning. He indicated that his government aims at reinforcing investment, specially from Arab countries. "The banking sector is the backbone of Lebanon's economy," Mikati said. He explained that the Lebanese economy has boasted stability and growth despite difficulties in the country, stressing that preliminary indicators point to economic growth. He remarked that the political situation did not reflect on the economy. "We hope the Arab Spring will have positive repercussions on the economy of the Arab world in general, and Lebanon in particular," Mikati noted and also praised Lebanese-Saudi relations, saying,'' The depth of our relation has become exemplary," and thanked the Saudi Kingdom for having opened its doors wide open before the Lebanese at all times of adversity. "Our relations are growing deeper amid turmoil sweeping the Arab world," Mikati added, expressing Lebanon's utmost need for KSA's support. Moreover, Mikati affirmed Lebanon's great belief in Arab solidarity as means to achieve growth.