There is no doubt that the visit of the UAE economic delegation carries a positive signal as a gesture of confidence in Lebanon. But economic logic is not flattering. An economic source said via “Lebanon 24” that capital, which is looking for long-term investments, does not usually move in an environment in which there is no state monopoly on weapons and there is a delay in completing the construction of its institutions. He adds that this type of investment requires guarantees, legal and security stability, and a clear horizon that does not change with every escalation.
In addition, the data indicate that investment confidence is not built with a single visit or with scattered positive statements. What is required is a series of concrete steps: reforming the banking sector, restoring confidence in the judiciary, activating the fight against corruption, and approving the reforms that the International Monetary Fund and international donors have long required. Without these steps, any visit, no matter how symbolic, remains a goodwill gesture rather than an actual investment commitment.
The bottom line is that Lebanon has exceptional elements of attraction, from its geographical location to the competence of its human cadres, but these elements remain suspended as long as the state remains unable to impose its full authority over its territory and its decision-making.
Source:
Special “Lebanon 24”
