The U.S. will influence the selection of Lebanon’s new Central Bank Governor to address corruption and limit Hezbollah’s funding through the banking system. This action follows Lebanon’s prolonged financial crisis, with the new governor expected to facilitate essential economic reforms as the government seeks support from international organizations. The U.S. holds meetings with potential candidates to discuss their ability to combat terrorism financing and corruption.
The United States plans to influence the selection of Lebanon’s new Central Bank Governor, aiming to address corruption and prevent Hezbollah from accessing the banking system. This step emphasizes U.S. involvement amid Lebanon’s ongoing five-year financial crisis that has spiraled into an economic collapse.
The U.S. focus aligns with its interest in diminishing Hezbollah’s influence, especially after a shift in Lebanon’s government where U.S.-backed Joseph Aoun was elected president without Hezbollah’s involvement. The interim governor has held the position since July 2023, necessitating the selection of a new governor.
Reports indicate that U.S. officials are evaluating various candidates, including former minister Camille Abu Suleiman and International Monetary Fund’s Jihad Azour. Meetings have been conducted in Washington and at the U.S. Embassy in Beirut to gauge candidates’ stance on anti-terrorism financing measures and their readiness to confront Hezbollah.
The U.S. has emphasized the importance of selecting a candidate who focuses on reform and anti-corruption, given the dire economic conditions in Lebanon. The new governor will play a crucial role in implementing promised reforms to stabilize Lebanon’s financial structure.
The Lebanese government aims to resume discussions with the International Monetary Fund for financial aid, contingent on these economic reforms. U.S, Saudi Arabia, and other nations are also engaged in dialogues regarding potential candidates.
The next governor will succeed Wassim Mansouri, the interim governor, following the scandalous exit of Riad Salameh after three decades of leadership. Salameh’s tenure ended in controversy, with sanctions imposed against him by the U.S., UK, and Canada due to allegations of corruption, highlighting the critical need for reform in Lebanon’s financial institutions.
The U.S. intervention in the selection of Lebanon’s Central Bank Governor underscores a focused effort to combat corruption and limit Hezbollah’s financial reach. With the financial crisis in Lebanon requiring urgent attention, the selection process is crucial for future economic reforms. By prioritizing qualified candidates who can implement necessary changes, the U.S. and Lebanon aim to stabilize the faltering economic framework.
Original Source: www.jordannews.jo
