In this episode, economist Walid Abu Suleiman deeply analyzes the Lebanese Army Support Conference and its potential effects on the Lebanese economy. Abu Suleiman raises questions about the pivotal role of the United States, taking into account possible European contributions, stressing that “Washington has the final say based on previous experiences.”
Abu Suleiman also focuses on the political requirements accompanying this stage, most notably the issue of “arms exclusivity and the harsh international standards that accompany it,” and links any foreign aid to the possibility of shifting toward a comprehensive economic support plan. He stresses that the basic condition for any successful economic conference lies in reaching “an agreement with the International Monetary Fund, as it is the mandatory gateway to restoring international confidence.”
The episode also discusses the “Financial Gap Law,” where Abu Suleiman proposes “three nos” to the proposed formula, and reveals its flaws and the possibilities of its rejection. In addition, the alternatives available to the state are addressed, including how to benefit from “gold reserves within controls that protect financial stability.”
This is an in-depth read that combines political and economic aspects to understand whether Lebanon is on the cusp of an integrated support plan, or whether it faces “difficult conditions that may redraw the priorities for the next stage.”
