Aoun from Tripoli: Development is a Right, Not a Favor; the State Reaches All Its Citizens

President of the Republic General Joseph Aoun affirmed that "his visit to Tripoli today is to confirm the state's presence alongside it and its people," expressing his "commitment to working for a better future for it and for all of Lebanon."

He stressed that "development is not a favor from the state but a right for citizens, and that the state we want is one that reaches all its children, guarantees their rights, and constitutes their assurance."

He said: "There is no development without security, which is a need for everyone, and here lies the role of the security agencies and the army," stressing that "the era of marginalization and exclusion has passed."

While confirming the condition of the intertwining of security and judiciary for the establishment of a strong state, he emphasized "the importance of judicial independence," calling for "keeping it above political tug-of-war so that a judge does not condemn an innocent person or acquit a criminal."

He reaffirmed that "Lebanon does not rise with one faction, region, or sect alone, but when its sons meet on the project of the state because there is no alternative to it, and when national belonging takes precedence over every other belonging," considering that "weakening the state does not grant power to any of its components."

The positions of President Aoun came during his visit to Tripoli to inspect the work of several of its administrations and public facilities, visiting the Saray (Government Palace), the Palace of Justice, and the Port of Tripoli, where he toured the container terminal and the economic zone, in addition to the Rashid Karami International Fair, where he met the city's MPs, dignitaries, and spiritual leaders. The city's streets were adorned with banners and slogans welcoming the President of the Republic and supporting his national positions.

al-arrival

President Aoun arrived at the Tripoli Saray at 8:15 AM, where he was received by Ministers of Interior and Municipalities Ahmad Al-Hajjar and Justice Adil Nassar, Director General of General Security Major General Hassan Shqair, Director General of Internal Security Forces Major General Raed Abdullah, Director General of State Security Major General Edgar Lawndos, Acting Governor of the North Iman Al-Rafei, mayors of Tripoli, Mina, Beddawi, Qalamoun, district governors, commander of the Gendarmerie Brigadier General Jean Awad, and heads of departments.

From the courtyard of the Saray, President Aoun and the attendees proceeded to the Governor's office, where an extensive meeting was held attended by the Ministers of Justice and Interior, Directors General of General Security, Internal Security Forces, and State Security, the Acting Governor of the North, Head of the Fayha Union Wael Zamerli, Mayor of Tripoli Abdul Hamid Karima, and a number of mayors, Public Prosecutor in the North Judge Hani Al-Hajjar, Commander of the North Military Region Brigadier General Bassem Al-Ahmadiya, Head of the North Intelligence Branch Brigadier General Haroun Siour, Commander of the Regional Gendarmerie in the North Brigadier General Mustafa Badran, Regional Director of State Security in the North Colonel Bassam Al-Hakim, and a number of senior officers and employees.

Al-Rafei

In the beginning of the meeting, Al-Rafei delivered a speech saying: "Tripoli's welcome of this blessed visit has special connotations as it sends a message of hope and trust in the state and its institutions, and reinforces the aspiration for effective public administration based on serving the citizen, consolidating the rule of law, achieving balanced development, and social justice.

This is not the first visit, as Tripoli and its surroundings, the reservoir of the Lebanese Army, have always been at the heart of your concerns, being aware of its situation during your tenure as Commander of the Lebanese Army, and when you assumed the presidency, citizens rejoiced at the great stature capable of overcoming difficulties and protecting the country from major storms and crises."

She added: "The city of Tripoli faces a set of intertwined social, economic, security, and environmental challenges that require an integrated treatment consisting of a rescue plan and comprehensive development combining security and stability, improving services, launching investments and job opportunities. We appreciate the efforts made under the promising presidency headed by Your Excellency and the upcoming government and specialized ministers regarding their diligent follow-up of the affairs of the city of Tripoli and its surroundings, especially from the security aspect followed almost daily by the Minister of Interior and Municipalities, as well as removing obstacles facing municipalities in performing their duties, and the interest of concerned ministers in activating economic facilities in the city and utilizing potentials to turn economic opportunities into productive projects and investments into job opportunities and development into a tangible reality felt by the citizen.

True integration between economic facilities, investment institutions, and the public sector is the fundamental pillar for local and national economic development that enhances social and security stability and consolidates trust in the state and its institutions."

Aoun

President Aoun replied: "The state must stand by your side at all times, not only at specific times, and then trust in it will be restored. You must facilitate citizens' affairs and serve them in the best possible way, preserving their dignity and ensuring they get their rights, regardless of their social status, as everyone is equal before rights and duties."

He added: "There is no development without security, which ensures attracting stability that in turn secures economic growth. Here, the role of the army and security agencies stands out, who perform their duties, and we are following their work and the measures taken in this region, along with the Ministry of Justice. This dear region has suffered greatly from neglect, and it is time to stop it; the era of marginalization and exclusion has passed. There are many projects that the sons of the region can benefit from; we must develop and expand them, and they complement each other (the port, the economic zone, the Rashid Karami International Fair, the Qlayaat Airport, the railway...)."

He continued: "The difficult conditions affecting the region include the whole country, but this does not negate the state's responsibility towards the people. Difficulties vanish before solid will, placing the interest of the nation and the citizen above every consideration and above sectarian, partisan, and political interests. Let politics remain for politicians, and you must perform your duty towards the citizen and secure the minimum for him to live with dignity and safety. No one has an excuse for negligence or falling behind in their work and providing services with transparency and responsibility."

Karima

For his part, the Mayor of Tripoli welcomed President Aoun and confirmed that "the city is happy to receive him, and its main demand is to provide security." He said: "For the first time, Tripoli feels direct attention through President Aoun's positions, follow-up, and concern for the city's interest."

After the meeting ended, Dr. Karima presented two paintings to President Aoun: the first was a manuscript of words from his oath speech, and the second was a painting representing the city of Tripoli and its famous clock.

State Security

Then the President of the Republic, ministers, and attendees headed to the Directorate General of State Security, where they were received by Colonel Al-Hakim and senior officers. During the visit, the President listened to an explanation about the reality of combating corruption, the missions performed by the branch, and the problems and difficulties facing it. He affirmed "the importance of security that does not distinguish between rich and poor, sect or denomination; it is a need for everyone, and it is our duty towards citizens to ensure it for all."

He praised "the missions performed by the Directorate General of State Security under the supervision of Major General Lawndos, despite modest capabilities, which is proof that will overcomes obstacles, and integration with the judiciary is essential, especially given the presence of highly competent individuals in this field."

He continued: "The most important scourge is drugs, which destroy communities and families. Those who promote them commit a great crime against youth, and therefore there should be no leniency with them or submission to pressures, but rather adherence to the oath and application of laws," noting "the work done by State Security in combating corruption, the progress achieved in this field, and that people's trust in you is the strongest weapon against criticism and attacks, whether in media, social media, or even by politicians. This means you are on the right path, which increases people's pride and Lebanon's pride in you."

Colonel Al-Hakim provided an explanation to the President about the tasks performed by State Security elements, and a documentary film showcasing achievements was screened.

Then President Aoun toured the premises of the headquarters.

Internal Security Forces Headquarters

After that, President Aoun moved to the Internal Security Forces headquarters in the Saray, inspecting the situation there. He visited the operations room, where Brigadier General Badran explained the work of the General Directorate in Tripoli. Minister Al-Hajjar, Major General Raed Abdullah, the Gendarmerie Commander, and senior officers also spoke, listing achievements made to date, including, for example, a 90% decrease in building violations after lifting political cover from them, a decrease in crime rates, and intensified patrols.

Then Captain Tony Al-Khawaja presented the most prominent measures taken by the Internal Security Forces in the North, and those that preserve security in coordination with various security agencies.

Afterwards, everyone moved to Brigadier General Badran's office, where President Aoun said: "I am proud of the uniform of the Internal Security Forces, and I do not forget its merit upon me because my father was among them. Relying on your will to perform your duty despite harsh conditions and for the sake of people tired of parties, sectarian talk, and exploitation. The state is the demand of the Lebanese, and this is what must be provided for them; there is no alternative. Everyone saw what happened in its absence in the seventies, and today it returns to play its role with all its apparatuses to serve citizens and restore their trust in it, thus facing and overcoming difficulties."

President Aoun continued: "Difficult circumstances sharpen competence and capability, and you possess them. We are by your side and support you in performing your duty according to your conscience, with justice, equality, and transparency in dealing with people. We trust you and wish for you to succeed in the assigned missions and continue moving forward. The Lebanese people are a trust in our necks."

General Security Center

Then the President of the Republic and attendees moved to the General Security center in the North, where he listened from its head, Colonel Azar Al-Shami, to the efforts made by the center to facilitate administrative affairs for citizens and keep up with them on the security front. He noted that the office issues about 30,000 passports annually, no escape cases have been recorded from General Security, and a new task has been added to traditional ones: pursuing tax evasion that used to occur at the Port of Tripoli.

President Aoun praised the efforts made by General Security and Major General Shqair to facilitate citizens' affairs, inviting him to "continue in this direction for the benefit of the Lebanese, and to pursue the path of development in services provided to citizens, which are sacred, contributing to saving time, fighting corruption, and enhancing transparency."

Then Major General Shqair explained the broad lines under which General Security operates in all Lebanese regions, especially in the North and Tripoli, and the security and administrative tasks entrusted to it, all in coordination with the army and other security agencies, leading to improved performance and enhanced security in this region.

Palace of Justice

At 9:30 AM, the President of the Republic arrived at the Palace of Justice, where he was received by the Minister of Justice, First President Judge Nidal Shamseddine, Public Prosecutor Judge Hani Helmi Al-Hajjar, First Investigating Judge Nagi Al-Dahdah, and Dean of Lawyers in Tripoli and the North Marwan Dahhar.

Initially, the meeting took place in Judge Al-Hajjar's office, who praised the care shown by President Aoun for judicial independence and fortification, noting that "his visit came a day after signing the second decree of judicial appointments in his term, which is important, and three days after the incident witnessed in the courtroom at the Palace of Justice, which was contained thanks to the quick intervention of security agencies and avoiding a real disaster," stressing "the importance of providing security in palaces of justice."

He indicated that "the Public Prosecution in Tripoli received from 1/10/2025 to 1/10/2026, 25,000 preliminary investigation files from security agencies, and 9,000 complaints submitted to the Public Prosecution, of which 2,330 files were referred to the investigating judge."

Lawyers general and investigating judges in the North attended the meeting.

President Aoun

President Aoun responded by confirming "the intertwining of security and judiciary to reach the desired results," stressing "the importance of the independence of officials in the judicial body, because laws do not guarantee the independence of lawyers and judges alone, but rather their personal conviction ensures it, such that a judge must not condemn an innocent person nor acquit a criminal."

He stressed that "combating corruption relies on two essentials: digital government and the judiciary, and the establishment of state institutions depends on combating corruption and judicial fairness."

He praised "the efforts made by the Minister of Justice to improve the situation of the judiciary in Lebanon, and the achievements realized by the judicial body especially during the current year," affirming "the necessity of relying on the firmness of judges and the fair rulings they issue," and indicating that "there is a trend to establish a palace of justice in Akkar, but current capabilities do not allow it."

He stressed "the importance of expediting the resolution of files as much as possible, and that trust in the judiciary is high," calling for "the judiciary to remain above political tug-of-war," affirming that "Tripoli, with its national, social, and economic weight, needs an effective judiciary that contributes to protecting rights, preserving stability, and encouraging investment."

President Aoun visited the Public Prosecution registry, inspected the files present, and listened from officials to the volume of completed work and the difficulties facing file resolution. From there, he moved to Judge Shamseddine's office, where she delivered a speech saying:

"It is a great honor for us to have your presence in Northern Lebanon. This presence confirms what was stated in the oath speech regarding the presidency's care for all Lebanese regions. Your presence at the Palace of Justice in Tripoli embodies your concern and that of the Minister of Justice to strengthen the judiciary and preserve its independence. This encourages us now and in the future to perform our duties with determination, independence, and challenging logistical and security difficulties facing the judiciary's work in this region. I will not prolong my speech due to lack of time, but we pledge to Your Excellency to work diligently and continuously to ensure justice and stability for the sons of this beloved homeland."

Judge Shamseddine presented a commemorative shield to President Aoun.

Bar Association

Then President Aoun moved to the Bar Association headquarters in Tripoli and the North, where he met Dean Dahhar and some members and former deans in the North. In a speech by Dean Dahhar, he welcomed President Aoun, who combines "leadership that realizes that the strength of the presidency lies in its ability to unify national will, that the prestige of the state comes from the prestige of its law, and that protecting the homeland begins with the unity of its sons and the solidity of its institutions."

He stressed that "the Bar Association in Tripoli will remain a support for the President of the Republic's national positions and diplomatic choices, believing that they are the most worthy path to extract Lebanon from the fire of war into which it was dragged."

He said: "Peace that preserves the people's rights, dignity, and sovereignty is not a concession, but a victory for the logic of the state and for Lebanon."

President Aoun

President Aoun responded, thanking the association for the warm reception, citing a famous quote by martyr Kamal Jumblatt: "My fear is that we become in the jungle law, but my greater fear is that we become in the jungle without law." He said: "The firmness and strength of the state are not limited only to its administrative institutions, but also to its legal and constitutional institutions, and the law must be applied to everyone."

He added: "The judiciary is a fundamental pillar, and there are those who harm it from within the judicial body. Therefore, it must purify itself to preserve itself and people's rights. Lawyers are essential in this field and equation. Like judges, they bear an important responsibility related to human freedom. Therefore, transparency must be preserved, and you have a great responsibility. Everyone relies on you to perform your tasks and duties as dictated by your conscience."

After taking a commemorative photo, Dean Dahhar presented the association's medal to President Aoun.

Popular Gathering

During the President's transfer from the Palace of Justice to the Port of Tripoli, he stopped before a large popular gathering cheering for him, while music and national songs blared mixed with citizens' cheers who spread in streets decorated with Lebanese flags, pictures of the President, and welcome banners.

President Aoun got out of the car and met the crowd gathered to greet him, chanting "God be with you, Mr. President," and exchanged conversation with some before continuing his way to the port.

Port of Tripoli

At around 10:45 AM, the President of the Republic and the accompanying ministerial and security delegation arrived at the Port of Tripoli. They were received by Ministers of Economy and Trade Amer Bsat and Public Works and Transport Faiz Rasamani, Head of the Port Management Board Engineer Iskandar Bandali, board members, Director of the Port Investment Service Dr. Ahmed Tamer, and Chairman of the Special Economic Zone in Tripoli Dr. Hassan Dnawi.

The President held a meeting attended by Ministers Rasamani, Bsat, Nassar, Al-Hajjar, security agency commanders, the Head of the Port Management Board, Vice Chairwoman Sarah Sharif, board members, Customs Region Chief Pascal Ilia, and Customs District Chief Wissam Al-Rawas. Also attending were Head of the Federation of Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture, Former Minister Mohammad Chaker, Head of the Economic and Social Council Charles Arabid, and Head of the North Chamber of Commerce Toufic Dboussi.

In the beginning of the meeting, Bandali welcomed President Aoun and explained the steps completed to improve the port's offerings and capacities. He stopped at the signing of the port's joining Beirut Port in the "IMEC Corridor Ports Club" and the great responsibility required to improve infrastructure, apply governance, and digital transformation, among other issues that facilitate citizens' work and improve the port's status. He also spoke about future projects awaiting the port and the importance of what is being done for people's benefit and facilitating its services.

President Aoun

President Aoun congratulated those in charge of the Port of Tripoli for joining the IMEC club and for the approved appointments, inviting them to "adhere to their responsibilities."

He noted that Lebanon's allocation of two ports to join this club is noteworthy in itself and deserves congratulations for the Minister of Public Works and everyone who contributed to achieving this accomplishment, which must be preserved. There is a great opportunity to highlight the presence of Tripoli and Beirut ports amidst regional developments and prove their legitimacy in providing necessary services for Lebanon and regional countries as well.

He praised the significant achievements witnessed by the port recently, 23 years after its establishment, hoping that "achievements and efforts continue to move forward and excel among other ports in the region, exploiting all current opportunities to enhance work and development in the port, because those who do not keep pace with development will be overtaken by history."

Service Director

Then Tamer spoke, stressing "the importance of restoring competitiveness to the ports of Tripoli and Beirut through restarting railway operations, which faces no problem except funding, as corridors are essential, and also government policy and the necessity of integrating with Syrian ports and not competing among themselves."

Golden Register

President Aoun wrote the following word in the port's golden register:

"Our visit today to the Port of Tripoli, Lebanon's economic window to the Mediterranean and incubator of its ancient history, is a firm confirmation of our absolute belief in the role of the second capital and our beloved north in the journey of national revival and comprehensive recovery. The sons of Tripoli and workers in this vital facility have proven great steadfastness and determination, making it an effective link between Lebanon, its surroundings, and the world. Today, more than ever, we rely on the energies of this facility and its infrastructure to be a primary feeder for the national economy and a symbol of productive and transparent work. Full appreciation for the efforts made by those managing the Port of Tripoli, and the promise that the state remains beside every national institution elevating work and production. Our pledge to the homeland and Tripoli is to move together toward a future worthy of our history and aspirations. May God guide you and straighten your steps on the path of good."

Then President Aoun toured the port's premises, visited the scanner center, observed the monitoring method, and inspected the container terminals receiving containers.

After the visit ended and before leaving the Port of Tripoli headquarters, President Aoun confirmed in response to a journalist's question that "the purpose of his visit to Tripoli is to confirm his standing beside this city and its people, that the era of exclusion and marginalization has passed, and that the North and Tripoli are in the hearts of all Lebanese."

He reassured, in response to another question, that "there is no fear for civil peace, and that political interference in the judiciary should not happen, as it must perform its duty."

Then President Aoun and the accompanying ministerial and security delegation, joined by the Port Board Chairman, Customs Region Chief, customs representatives, and senior employees, moved from the administration building to the control and monitoring room, where they listened to a brief explanation from Brigadier General Siour about the monitoring system equipped with AI-powered cameras covering the city of Tripoli under the supervision of the Army's Intelligence Directorate.

Ships docked at the port sounded their horns in salute to the President as he moved along the quays.

Afterwards, he moved to the scanner device site, where he was received by CMA CGM Regional Manager Joseph Daqqaq and senior employees. Daqqaq explained how the company purchased, operated, and maintained the scanner device, while the Customs Directorate inspects containers, and the projects undertaken by the company in the port to develop it and improve services.

Economic Zone

Then President Aoun moved to the Special Economic Zone, where he was received on the deck of CMA CGM by Dr. Dnawi, board members, and Former Minister Chaker. Dr. Dnawi briefed President Aoun on updates to the development of the industrial logistics center project belonging to the economic zone, explaining details of the master plan, expected industries, and the importance of integrating the zone with the port, railways, airport, and fair.

He stressed "the necessity of closing all dumps and landfills surrounding the zone due to their negative impact on attracting investors." President Aoun was also informed about the imminent launch of a qualification round for global companies within the mechanism for launching the international tender to develop and manage the industrial logistics center soon, noting that many global companies express interest in participating in this international tender."

Rashid Karami International Fair

Immediately after, the President and delegation headed to the Rashid Karami International Fair, where he was received by its head Hani Al-Shaarani. Then President Aoun met with the Fair's management board, where Al-Shaarani gave a speech stressing "the importance of the visit and presenting a comprehensive overview of the stages the fair has gone through, the development it has undergone over the years, and its importance for Tripoli and Lebanon generally, focusing on its complete reliance on solar energy and that the equipment benefiting the fair does not cost the state money."

He said: "The fair witnessed 186 activities in 14 months, including cultural, sports, and exhibitions, noting that revenues reached approximately $500,000 during this period."

Minister Bsat praised "the work done by the fair's board of directors on cultural, tourism, and economic levels," considering it "tremendous work."

President Aoun

President Aoun expressed "appreciation for the work accomplished at the Rashid Karami International Fair despite all difficulties, reflecting the single vision we want for Tripoli and the North, based on investing available potentials, activating vital facilities, and transforming them into engines for growth and job opportunities."

He noted that "the achievements reflect the will and firmness of the Lebanese and overcoming difficult circumstances," affirming "the state's readiness to do whatever is necessary, according to available capabilities, to continue working in this fair, so that achieved accomplishments become a permanent path."

Word in the Register

President Aoun wrote the following word in the fair's golden register:

"The Rashid Karami International Fair in Tripoli constitutes a national edifice embodying Lebanon's ambition for progress and openness, storing architectural, cultural, and economic heritage reflecting Tripoli's status and role in Lebanon's renaissance. As we visit this national landmark, we confirm our care for its preservation and activation, to return as a promising space for investment, production, and convergence, and a lever for developing Tripoli and the North, enhancing their role in building the Lebanon we aspire to: a unified, prosperous nation, just in development across all its regions."

Extensive Meeting

After tours in the fair grounds via golf carts, an extensive meeting was held attended by Ministers Rasamani, Al-Hajjar, and Nassar, MPs Faisal Karami, Ashraf Rifi, Karim Kabbara, Elie Khoury, Haider Nasser, and Taha Naji, a number of former ministers from the city, the Acting Governor of the North, Head of the Fayha Union, a number of mayors, accompanying security agency heads, and military and security leaderships.

Also present were Mufti of the North Sheikh Mohammad Imam, Maronite Bishop of Tripoli Youssef Soueif, Greek Orthodox Metropolitan Ephraim Kyriakos, Greek Catholic Bishop Edwar Dahhar, Head of the Alawite Islamic Council Sheikh Ali Qaddour, Tripoli dignitaries, heads of free professions unions, and representatives of economic and banking institutions.

Al-Shaarani

Al-Shaarani began the meeting with a speech stressing that "Tripoli looks today, as always, to effective partnership with the state, consolidating balanced development, returning vitality to its institutions and economy, opening doors of work and creativity for its youth."

He said: "We all hope that your noble visit opens new horizons, transitioning aspirations from the realm of hope to the field of action, and turning promising opportunities into tangible projects."

He affirmed that "when Tripoli rises, Lebanon rises with it, and when we open doors of opportunity for its youth, we open windows of hope and prosperity for the nation."

President Aoun

Then a short film about the fair was screened before President Aoun delivered the following speech:

"First, I wish to greet those in charge of the fair who ensured the full playing of the national anthem, and I invite all institutions and companies to do the same.

Distinguished guests, Lebanon has passed through difficult years during which Lebanese paid heavy prices in terms of security, stability, economy, and confidence in their future. Experiences have proven that division protects no one, weakening the state grants power to no component, and the nation cannot rise except with its sons united under one roof: the constitution, law, and institutions. Hence, I say our responsibility today is to learn from past experiences, place Lebanon's interest above narrow calculations, and work to fortify our national unity not just with slogans, but with practice, justice, and equality in rights and duties.

Lebanon's strength lies in its diversity, but this diversity acquires its true meaning only when it is a source of richness and complementarity, not a cause for disagreement and division. Coexistence is not merely living together among different groups, but a deep belief that we are partners in one homeland, our future is one, and the rights of any Lebanese cannot come at the expense of another's rights.

The modern, strong, unified, and prosperous state is built on the centrality of arms in the hands of its single army, and the non-centrality of development, i.e., development across the entire homeland and for every citizen—the two pillars that realize belonging and loyalty to the nation. Our national responsibility requires restoring respect for work and production, opening future horizons for our youth in their homeland instead of forcing them to seek opportunities abroad. Tripoli, with its energies, competencies, and economic facilities, is capable of being a key partner in Lebanon's renaissance if vision, management, and necessary investments are available.

I affirm that there is no development without a state, no state without effective institutions, and no institutions without respect for law, accountability, and reckoning. The state is not in confrontation with its sons, but is their guarantee; it is not owned by a class, sect, or faction, but belongs to all Lebanese and is their common reference. From this perspective, building the state, strengthening its authority over all Lebanese territories, preserving national sovereignty and independent decision-making is a unifying national responsibility that does not hold with partiality or selectivity, but with everyone's commitment to the constitution and laws and resorting to legitimate institutions.

My presence today in Tripoli, this ancient city storing a history of patriotism, dignity, and diversity, carries a message beyond the boundaries of the visit and occasion. Tripoli is not a peripheral city in the nation, nor should it be. It is a fundamental city in Lebanon's history, present, and future, and its sons are full partners in building the state, making national decisions, and determining options shaping the country's future.

I address here Tripoli and its people, and all the North, to confirm that development is not a favor from the state, but a right for citizens and a duty on institutions. No Lebanese should feel abandoned or that their region is outside the state's calculations. The state we want is one that reaches all its sons, provides them with job, education, healthcare, and social protection opportunities, and guarantees them security, justice, and dignity.

Tripoli, which birthed great national men and embraced culture, science, and openness, is capable of being a model in convergence, cooperation, and looking to the future. What I wish is to make this visit a station to enhance trust between the state and the city's people, translating words into practical steps, promises into projects, and hopes into results felt by the citizen in daily life.

Development is not just promises, but actual investments, more efficient institutions, and job opportunities for youth. Tripoli is not a collection of separate projects; it is a city possessing real economic, human, and cultural foundations deserving to be at the heart of national development. The port, economic zone, fair, and later the airport, must work within a single vision, not as separate projects.

Tripoli, the ancient city wronged for decades by state neglect, unfortunately, and by masked gangs messing with politics until it was violated and became a black mailbox for exchanging poisoned messages—messages that fell as bombs and bullets on streets, neighborhoods, good people, and students seeking work. Unfortunately, I personally lived through the dark phase in Tripoli's history.

I am here today to put another message in its mailbox titled: Tripoli is the pearl of Lebanon, owner of stolen and acquired rights. Tripoli today shakes off the dust of long years and stands to say with full confidence that it is the city of Fayha, rich in facilities, heritage, universities, institutes, and people. Tripoli of history, Tripoli of the castle, Tripoli of knowledge and scholars, heart of the North, all the North. Tripoli of Church Street and mosques of serene faith. Tripoli of Sheikh Mohammad Al-Jisr, Martyred President Rashid Karami, Late President Omar Karami, and dozens of Lebanon's men. Tripoli, the city that offered martyrs in the Independence Battle of 1943, never stingy with Lebanon.

I am the President of the Lebanese Republic, and my responsibility is to be equidistant from all Lebanese, working for a Lebanon that accommodates everyone, protects everyone, and gives everyone the same chance in citizenship, dignity, and future. Lebanon does not rise with one faction alone, nor one region alone, nor one sect alone, but when its sons meet on the project of the state, and when national belonging precedes every other belonging in managing the nation's affairs and interests.

Let us work together for a strong, just state, a productive economy, a cohesive society, and a homeland whose sons feel assured of their future in it. From me to Tripoli and its people, all love and appreciation, and all commitment to working for a better future for it, the North, and all Lebanon. I greet you and confirm that your army and security agencies are your sons sacrificing for you in the hardest conditions. I came today to tell you: The era of deprivation, exclusion, and marginalization has ended. Tripoli, 'You are the heart, and you are in the heart.' Thank you all, all love to Tripoli, the North, and all Lebanon. Long live you, long live Tripoli, long live the North, and long live Lebanon."

Words

Then speeches were delivered by MPs Karami, Rifi, Naji, Khoury, and Nasser, Mufti Imam, Bishop Soueif, and Sheikh Qaddour, who welcomed President Aoun in Tripoli, praised his national positions and choices, outlined the problems facing the city on all fronts: security, administrative, and developmental, and the deprivation it suffered for years. They stressed that "hope is much greater this time due to President Aoun's interest in the city and its people, and the importance of implementing promises and ideas that would elevate the city to where it should be."

Religious leaders stressed that "the prevailing reputation of Tripoli does not reflect its true reality or its rich history of coexistence among all sects, and that they are working to restore the true image, confirming they are one indivisible family."

Tripoli's active figures also stressed "the importance of the message of hope, patriotism, and institutions brought by President Aoun, and the importance of achieving balanced development, confirming the removal of grievance and deprivation from this city."

President Aoun

President Aoun responded saying that "the image of Tripoli before the war remains etched in his memory. He returned to it in 2013 and was surprised by the image of fighting among its people. What was striking was that a son of Tripoli was in the Mountain, and a son of the Mountain was in Tripoli, which was indeed strange amidst ongoing confrontations."

He said: "Here appears the kindness of Tripoli's people and the Mountain's people who were exploited through poisoned messages sent via bullets and bombs, and the city's sons paid the price."

President Aoun concluded: "I returned as army commander and visited religious leaders there, saying Tripoli is not the land of terrorism. This visit as President of the Republic emphasizes that the era of marginalization and poisonous political messages has passed. Responsibility is shared between the state and you, and together we will work for the benefit of Tripoli and the North's sons."

President Aoun then left Tripoli returning to the Presidential Palace in Baabda with the same warmth and honor he was received with.