Prime Minister Nawaf Salam stressed that the choice of diplomacy is not a sign of weakness, but rather an expression of national responsibility aimed at not leaving any path unexplored to restore the sovereignty of our country and protect its people. He said, before the European Union foreign ministers in Luxembourg: “Our goal is not symbolic engagement. On the contrary, we are determined to seize this opportunity to work towards a permanent solution.” He explained that his government seeks, through this diplomatic path, to end the occupation, ensure the release of prisoners, and secure the return of the displaced to their homes and villages. He stressed that the government's will to establish the state's monopoly on arms, and to put an end to regional interference in its internal affairs, should no longer be in question. Salam said: “The scale of the challenges we face is enormous, and calls for greater international solidarity.” He added: “Lebanon needs its European partners today more than ever before: First: in continuing our support to confront the unprecedented humanitarian crisis. Second: In strengthening support for the Lebanese Army and the Internal Security Forces. The equation is clear: the stronger the Lebanese army is, the weaker the illegal armed parties. Third: In supporting recovery and reconstruction efforts, as they are the cornerstone of long-term stability in Lebanon and in the region in general.