Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said on Wednesday that the Lebanese government remains committed to the exclusive authority of the State over weapons, announcing that the disarmament issue will soon be placed on the Cabinet's agenda.

“We have a constitution based on the Taif Agreement, which clearly states the need to extend the authority of the state, and all ministers are committed to this," Salam said following a meeting with Maronite Patriarch Bechara al-Rahi in Bkerke.

“The ministerial statement reaffirmed the exclusivity of arms, and everyone is committed to this principle. Additionally, the responsibility for matters of war and peace rests with the state, and everyone is committed to this as well,” he added.

Salam confirmed that the Cabinet would soon address the disarmament issue, requesting that the Minister of Defense provide an update on the progress of implementing the provisions related to state authority and weapons control.

“We are committed to both of these points outlined in the ministerial statement,” he said. “Hopefully, you will hear good news on this matter soon.”

Turning to domestic issues, Salam reiterated the government's determination to hold municipal elections on schedule, calling the matter “non-negotiable.”

“We are determined to hold municipal elections on time, and this is a matter that leaves no room for debate,” he said.

On the political structure of Beirut, Salam stressed that the capital’s unique power-sharing arrangement must be preserved. He noted that discussions with Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri had focused on potential mechanisms to maintain this balance, such as using closed electoral lists in Beirut and other major cities.

“If there are concerns regarding the power-sharing system in Beirut, there are several ideas I have discussed with President Nabih Berri. One possibility is to maintain power-sharing through the use of closed lists in Beirut and other major cities,” he explained.

Salam also updated the patriarch on the recent visit by U.S. envoy Morgan Ortagus, calling the exchange “fruitful.”

The Prime Minister emphasized the Maronite Patriarchate’s role as a “major national reference” and praised his cabinet’s achievements, particularly in the areas of appointments and reform legislation.

Regarding the investigation into the Beirut Port explosion, Salam highlighted the need to preserve judicial independence.

“We must allow the judiciary to work freely in order to uncover the truth behind the Beirut Port explosion. I do not want anyone to interfere with the judiciary,” he said.