Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said his government is confronting years of neglect in Tripoli by launching development projects, including efforts to activate the Tripoli Special Economic Zone, revive the Rashid Karami International Fair, and restart operations at Rene Moawad Airport.
Speaking from the Tripoli Port, Salam said shelter centers are only a temporary solution for those affected by the collapsing buildings in the city. He stressed that displaced residents will return to their homes.
In this context, he noted that some of families have already begun benefiting from housing allowances, while others have chosen to stay with relatives, leaving the decision to individuals.
Salam declared that the government has begun studying housing plans to rebuild damaged buildings, including those that require demolition.
Addressing recent tax increases approved by the cabinet on Monday, Salam said the government adopted binding measures to prevent inflation or currency depreciation, adding that salary raises for military and public sector employees were justified.
On public finances, the Lebanese PM said the government wants public sector employees to receive their rights and is working to improve tax and customs revenue collection.
He said the government plans to issue collection orders for quarries, re-examine the files of public maritime properties, and adopt a value-added tax policy targeting wealthier groups.
Earlier on Monday, the cabinet raised the Value Added Tax (VAT) to 12%, increasing the price of a can of gasoline by about $3.50. It also approved salary increases for public sector employees and retirees.
Source: Al-Manar English Website