Lebanese President Michel Aoun has urged his nation to unite on Sunday after violent protests erupted in parts of Beirut. The protestors are the supporters of rival sectarian political parties.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/masks-and-gloves-clad-lebanese-join-anti-government-protests-303982" hreflang="en">Masks and gloves clad Lebanese join anti-government protests</a>

Lebanon has been under a fragile sectarian balance ever since a civil war in the country from 1975 to 1990.&nbsp;

This was the first big anti-government protest since the three-month-long lockdown has been lifted in the country, to help revive the crippling economy.

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The government is negotiating an International Monetary Fund package it hopes will secure billions of dollars in financing to prop up its collapsing economy.

"Our strength remains in our national unity...What happened last night is a warning bell," Aoun's office quoted him as saying on Twitter. "We must put our political disputes aside and hurry to work together to revive our country from the depth of the successive crises."

Despite wearing gloves and masks, social distancing during these protests.&nbsp;

The protests turned violent as people burned garbage bins and ransacked a furniture shop in the capital's upscale shopping district. The shop's windows and doors were broken. People also took out couch from the store to block that road.

"The Prime Minister condemns and denounces in the strongest terms, all sectarian slogans ... and calls on all Lebanese and their political and spiritual leaders to exercise awareness and wisdom and cooperate with the army and security services," Prime Minister Hassan Diab wrote on Twitter.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Lebanese President Michel Aoun has urged his nation to unite on Sunday after violent protests erupted in parts of Beirut. The protestors are the supporters of rival sectarian political parties.

Lebanese President Michel Aoun has urged his nation to unite on Sunday after violent protests erupted in parts of Beirut. The protestors are the supporters of rival sectarian political parties. Also read: Masks and gloves clad Lebanese join anti-government protests Lebanon has been under a fragile sectarian balance ever since a civil war in the country from 1975 to 1990. This was the first big anti-government protest since the three-month-long lockdown has been lifted in the country, to help revive the crippling economy. The government is negotiating an International Monetary Fund package it hopes will secure billions of dollars in financing to prop up its collapsing economy. "Our strength remains in our national unity...What happened last night is a warning bell," Aoun's office quoted him as saying on Twitter. "We must put our political disputes aside and hurry to work together to revive our country from the depth of the successive crises." Despite wearing gloves and masks, social distancing during these protests. The protests turned violent as people burned garbage bins and ransacked a furniture shop in the capital's upscale shopping district. The shop's windows and doors were broken. People also took out couch from the store to block that road. "The Prime Minister condemns and denounces in the strongest terms, all sectarian slogans ... and calls on all Lebanese and their political and spiritual leaders to exercise awareness and wisdom and cooperate with the army and security services," Prime Minister Hassan Diab wrote on Twitter. (With inputs from Reuters)

Lebanon protests: President Michel Aoun urges nation to unite

As the government lifted the lockdown in Lebanon, people took to streets to protest against the way the government handled the pandemic, and for landing the country into a deep economic crisis.

This was the first big anti-government protest since the three-month long lockdown has been lifted in the country, to help revive the crippling economy.

The government is negotiating an International Monetary Fund package it hopes will secure billions of dollars in financing to prop up its collapsing economy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/anti-government-protesters-back-on-streets-after-3-months-pause-in-lebanon-303935">Also watch:&nbsp;Anti-government protesters back on streets after 3 months pause in Lebanon</a>

Protesters marched in the streets wearing face masks and gloves. However, social distancing was not maintained on the streets.

The protests turned violent as people burned garbage bins and ransacked a furniture shop in the capital's upscale shopping district. The shop's windows and doors were broken. People also took out couch from the store to block that road.

Security forces responded by firing rounds of tear gas, footage from Lebanese broadcasters showed.

"The Prime Minister condemns and denounces in the strongest terms, all sectarian slogans ... and calls on all Lebanese and their political and spiritual leaders to exercise awareness and wisdom and cooperate with the army and security services," Prime Minister Hassan Diab wrote on Twitter.

The country is facing extreme economic crisis, which the locals blame on corruption, claiming that the pandemic has only made it worse.

The pound currency has lost more than half of its value on the parallel market, prices have soared, and companies dealing with the double blow of the coronavirus have axed jobs.

(With inputs from Reuters)

As the government lifted the lockdown in Lebanon, people took to streets to protest against the way the government handled the pandemic, and for landing the country into a deep economic crisis.

As the government lifted the lockdown in Lebanon, people took to streets to protest against the way the government handled the pandemic, and for landing the country into a deep economic crisis. This was the first big anti-government protest since the three-month long lockdown has been lifted in the country, to help revive the crippling economy. The government is negotiating an International Monetary Fund package it hopes will secure billions of dollars in financing to prop up its collapsing economy. Also watch: Anti-government protesters back on streets after 3 months pause in Lebanon Protesters marched in the streets wearing face masks and gloves. However, social distancing was not maintained on the streets. The protests turned violent as people burned garbage bins and ransacked a furniture shop in the capital's upscale shopping district. The shop's windows and doors were broken. People also took out couch from the store to block that road. Security forces responded by firing rounds of tear gas, footage from Lebanese broadcasters showed. "The Prime Minister condemns and denounces in the strongest terms, all sectarian slogans ... and calls on all Lebanese and their political and spiritual leaders to exercise awareness and wisdom and cooperate with the army and security services," Prime Minister Hassan Diab wrote on Twitter. The country is facing extreme economic crisis, which the locals blame on corruption, claiming that the pandemic has only made it worse. The pound currency has lost more than half of its value on the parallel market, prices have soared, and companies dealing with the double blow of the coronavirus have axed jobs. (With inputs from Reuters)

Masks and gloves clad Lebanese join anti-government protests

Lebanon has decided to restart its economy from Monday onwards. Prime Minister Hassan Diab announced about this after a four-day shutdown imposed after a surge in coronavirus cases threatening a second wave to the country.&nbsp;

The country has been in an economical crisis even before the pandemic hit Lebanon. But the nation was trying to reignite its economy last month which was halted due to rise in COVID cases.&nbsp;

Lebanon recorded 911 cases in the novel coronavirus and 26 deaths, which means the country has been successful in containing the globally infected virus after curfews and shutting businesses and air travel.&nbsp;

On Sunday, Prime Minister Diab conveyed a message to his citizens through a televised address where he urged people to follow health and safety guidelines.&nbsp;

"We do not want this stage to turn into a nightmare, and we will not accept that all Lebanese pay the price for some irresponsible and indifferent behaviours," said Diab.

A five-stage plan for reopening economic activity unveiled last month envisages most economic activity revived after a final period starting on June 8.

Lebanon has not set a date for the re-opening of its airport for commercial flights.

Lebanon has decided to restart its economy from Monday onwards. Prime Minister Hassan Diab announced about this after a four-day shutdown imposed after a surge in coronavirus cases threatening a second wave to the country.

Lebanon has decided to restart its economy from Monday onwards. Prime Minister Hassan Diab announced about this after a four-day shutdown imposed after a surge in coronavirus cases threatening a second wave to the country. The country has been in an economical crisis even before the pandemic hit Lebanon. But the nation was trying to reignite its economy last month which was halted due to rise in COVID cases. Lebanon recorded 911 cases in the novel coronavirus and 26 deaths, which means the country has been successful in containing the globally infected virus after curfews and shutting businesses and air travel. On Sunday, Prime Minister Diab conveyed a message to his citizens through a televised address where he urged people to follow health and safety guidelines. "We do not want this stage to turn into a nightmare, and we will not accept that all Lebanese pay the price for some irresponsible and indifferent behaviours," said Diab. A five-stage plan for reopening economic activity unveiled last month envisages most economic activity revived after a final period starting on June 8. Lebanon has not set a date for the re-opening of its airport for commercial flights.

Lebanon to restart economic re-opening from Monday after coronavirus lockdown

Lebanon on Friday confirmed the first case of coronavirus in the country, which has already killed over 2,000 people in China.

Two other suspected cases are also being investigated, the health minister said at a press conference in Beirut.

"We confirmed the first case today," Hamad Hassan said adding, it was found&nbsp;in a 45-year-old Lebanese woman who had travelled from Qom in Iran.

Hamad Hassan said that all the people who were on the same flight from Iran had been contacted by the health authorities.

He said that anyone returning from Iran would be asked to observe a two-week home quarantine.

The COVID-19 outbreak first appeared in Iran on Wednesday.

Tehran has now confirmed a total 18 infections and four deaths by the SARS-like virus, which first emerged in China in late December.

Thousands of Lebanese travel to Iran every year to visit Shiite holy sites in Qom and other cities.

China on Friday raised the death toll to 2,236 -- most of them in the province of Hubei, where the virus was first detected. More than 75,000 have now been infected in China and over 1,100 abroad.

(With inputs from agencies)

Lebanon on Friday confirmed the first case of coronavirus in the country, which has already killed over 2,000 people in China. Two other suspected cases are also being investigated, the health minister said at a press conference in Beirut.

Lebanon on Friday confirmed the first case of coronavirus in the country, which has already killed over 2,000 people in China. Two other suspected cases are also being investigated, the health minister said at a press conference in Beirut. "We confirmed the first case today," Hamad Hassan said adding, it was found in a 45-year-old Lebanese woman who had travelled from Qom in Iran. Hamad Hassan said that all the people who were on the same flight from Iran had been contacted by the health authorities. He said that anyone returning from Iran would be asked to observe a two-week home quarantine. The COVID-19 outbreak first appeared in Iran on Wednesday. Tehran has now confirmed a total 18 infections and four deaths by the SARS-like virus, which first emerged in China in late December. Thousands of Lebanese travel to Iran every year to visit Shiite holy sites in Qom and other cities. China on Friday raised the death toll to 2,236 -- most of them in the province of Hubei, where the virus was first detected. More than 75,000 have now been infected in China and over 1,100 abroad. (With inputs from agencies)

Lebanon announces first novel coronavirus case

A policy statement by Lebanon's new government calls for interest rate cuts and bank recapitalisation in a rescue plan that includes "painful steps" to address a financial crisis, according to a draft seen by Reuters on Sunday.

The policy statement, on which the new government will seek a confidence vote in parliament, may still be amended. It was agreed on Saturday by a cabinet committee that will meet again on Monday to give it final approval.

The government, formed on January&nbsp;21 after the previous one was toppled by protests in October, warned Lebanese in the policy statement that it must quickly take "painful" steps to avoid "total collapse".

"It is not possible for any rescue plan to succeed if we do not reduce interest rates on loans and deposits in order to revitalise the economy and lower the cost of debt," said the statement.

Lebanon is suffering a crippling dollar shortage and has one of the world's highest levels of public debt. It must decide quickly how to deal with a $1.2 billion Eurobond maturing in March.

The statement called international donors to provide soft loans to help meet the treasury's financing needs, though it did not name any institutions or say how much was required.

Policy proposals included expediting a second licensing round for oil and gas exploration, appointing a new electricity sector regulator, and raising tax revenues with better collection and a progressive income tax.

A policy statement by Lebanon's new government calls for interest rate cuts and bank recapitalisation in a rescue plan that includes "painful steps" to address a financial crisis, according to a draft seen by Reuters on Sunday.

A policy statement by Lebanon's new government calls for interest rate cuts and bank recapitalisation in a rescue plan that includes "painful steps" to address a financial crisis, according to a draft seen by Reuters on Sunday. The policy statement, on which the new government will seek a confidence vote in parliament, may still be amended. It was agreed on Saturday by a cabinet committee that will meet again on Monday to give it final approval. The government, formed on January 21 after the previous one was toppled by protests in October, warned Lebanese in the policy statement that it must quickly take "painful" steps to avoid "total collapse". "It is not possible for any rescue plan to succeed if we do not reduce interest rates on loans and deposits in order to revitalise the economy and lower the cost of debt," said the statement. Lebanon is suffering a crippling dollar shortage and has one of the world's highest levels of public debt. It must decide quickly how to deal with a $1.2 billion Eurobond maturing in March. The statement called international donors to provide soft loans to help meet the treasury's financing needs, though it did not name any institutions or say how much was required. Policy proposals included expediting a second licensing round for oil and gas exploration, appointing a new electricity sector regulator, and raising tax revenues with better collection and a progressive income tax.

Lebanon spells out 'painful steps' required in financial rescue plan

The new finance minister of debt-saddled Lebanon met on Saturday with an official from the International Monetary Fund for what he said was a "courtesy visit" and not bailout talks.

Ghazi Wazni's meeting with IMF alternative executive director Sami Geadah came as Lebanon grapples with its worst economic crisis since the 1975-1990 civil war.

The meeting served to "congratulate Lebanon on the formation of a new government," Wazni said on Twitter afterwards.

He had told AFP earlier that it was "a courtesy visit... to get to know the IMF team".

"The discussions will not focus on an economic rescue plan, which is being prepared (separately) inside the government," he added.&nbsp;

It follows a meeting on Friday between Wazni and a delegation from the World Bank-led by its regional director Saroj Kumar Jha.

Wazni assumed the post of finance minister on Tuesday with the formation of a long-awaited cabinet that faces huge economic and political challenges.

The previous government resigned on October 29, two weeks into a nationwide protest movement demanding the removal of politicians deemed incompetent and corrupt.

Wazni comes into the post at a time when the plummeting Lebanon pound has lost over a third of its value against the dollar in the parallel market.

Lebanese banks are tightening restrictions on dollar transactions amid a liquidity crunch.

The economic downturn has raised questions over whether Lebanon will turn to the IMF for a bailout -- an option the government has yet to comment on but which some officials regard as inevitable.

Last month, former prime minister Saad Hariri discussed a possible economic rescue plan with the heads of the IMF and the World Bank, further fuelling speculation of a bailout.

If Lebanon does turn to the IMF it may have to increase its value-added tax, slash subsidies to the state-owned electricity company, tackle rampant corruption and enact a raft of structural reforms, according to previous IMF recommendations.

The new finance minister of debt-saddled Lebanon met on Saturday with an official from the International Monetary Fund for what he said was a "courtesy visit" and not bailout talks.

The new finance minister of debt-saddled Lebanon met on Saturday with an official from the International Monetary Fund for what he said was a "courtesy visit" and not bailout talks. Ghazi Wazni's meeting with IMF alternative executive director Sami Geadah came as Lebanon grapples with its worst economic crisis since the 1975-1990 civil war. The meeting served to "congratulate Lebanon on the formation of a new government," Wazni said on Twitter afterwards. He had told AFP earlier that it was "a courtesy visit... to get to know the IMF team". "The discussions will not focus on an economic rescue plan, which is being prepared (separately) inside the government," he added. It follows a meeting on Friday between Wazni and a delegation from the World Bank-led by its regional director Saroj Kumar Jha. Wazni assumed the post of finance minister on Tuesday with the formation of a long-awaited cabinet that faces huge economic and political challenges. The previous government resigned on October 29, two weeks into a nationwide protest movement demanding the removal of politicians deemed incompetent and corrupt. Wazni comes into the post at a time when the plummeting Lebanon pound has lost over a third of its value against the dollar in the parallel market. Lebanese banks are tightening restrictions on dollar transactions amid a liquidity crunch. The economic downturn has raised questions over whether Lebanon will turn to the IMF for a bailout -- an option the government has yet to comment on but which some officials regard as inevitable. Last month, former prime minister Saad Hariri discussed a possible economic rescue plan with the heads of the IMF and the World Bank, further fuelling speculation of a bailout. If Lebanon does turn to the IMF it may have to increase its value-added tax, slash subsidies to the state-owned electricity company, tackle rampant corruption and enact a raft of structural reforms, according to previous IMF recommendations.

Lebanon's new finance minister meets with IMF official

Protesters and security forces clash in Beirut, multiple wounded

Lebanese rescuers treated more than 300 people for injuries during hours of clashes between security forces and protesters that rocked central <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-nissan-boss-ghosn-says-french-envoy-warned-about-nissan-turning-against-him-274341">Beirut</a> on Saturday night.

<img alt="Fireworks are set off in front of police officers standing in position behind riot shields during the protest" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dacbb317-b37f-496c-947f-940928c4b91e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2835%29_2.jpg" /> 
[ Fireworks are set off in front of police officers standing in position behind riot shields during the protest (Courtesy: Reuters) ]

It was the highest toll in some of the most intense violence since largely peaceful protests erupted across the country in October. As&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/prince-harry-draws-attention-to-2021-rugby-league-world-cup-274856">Lebanon</a>&nbsp;sinks deeper into its worst economic crisis in decades, anger has boiled over at a ruling elite dominating the country since the 1975-1990 civil war.

Watch: Fire engulfed in protester's camps in clash between security forces, protesters

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The Lebanese Red Cross said it had treated 220 people who were wounded on both sides on Saturday night, taking 80 of them to hospital. The Civil Defence said it had helped 114 others.

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FINAL UPDATE: 18 ambulances, 80 EMTs and 6 dispatchers from the LRC responded to the protests in downtown Beirut. Over 80 victims have been transported to nearby hospitals and over 140 injured were treated at the scene. LRC teams are still on standby and ready to respond. <a href="https://t.co/p1OG7WFqwl">pic.twitter.com/p1OG7WFqwl</a>
— Lebanese Red Cross (@RedCrossLebanon) <a href="https://twitter.com/RedCrossLebanon/status/1218619286190809088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Smoke enveloped a commercial district of the capital as security forces fired volleys of tear gas and unleashed water cannons. Riot police chased after men and women near&nbsp;Lebanon's parliament late into the night.

<img alt="A riot police kicks a tear gas canister during a protest against a ruling elite" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="84a7e4d3-2ccc-47f6-a34d-806c20c3f42c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2837%29_3.jpg" /> 
[ A riot police kicks a tear gas canister during a protest against a ruling elite (Courtesy: Reuters) ]

Protesters, with their faces covered, hurled stones, steel barriers and flower pots. They ripped branches off trees and signposts off the ground, charging at riot police.

In three months of protests, which have gripped the country and pushed Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/consultations-to-name-lebanese-pm-delayed-until-thursday-268534">Saad Hariri</a> to quit, politicians wrangling over cabinet seats have failed to agree on a new government or a rescue plan.

Meanwhile, the crisis is biting: the Lebanese pound has lost nearly half its value, dollar shortages have driven up prices and confidence in the banking system has collapsed.

Lebanese rescuers treated more than 300 people for injuries during hours of clashes between security forces and protesters that rocked central Beirut on Saturday night.

Lebanese rescuers treated more than 300 people for injuries during hours of clashes between security forces and protesters that rocked central Beirut on Saturday night. [ Fireworks are set off in front of police officers standing in position behind riot shields during the protest (Courtesy: Reuters) ] It was the highest toll in some of the most intense violence since largely peaceful protests erupted across the country in October. As Lebanon sinks deeper into its worst economic crisis in decades, anger has boiled over at a ruling elite dominating the country since the 1975-1990 civil war. Watch: Fire engulfed in protester's camps in clash between security forces, protesters The Lebanese Red Cross said it had treated 220 people who were wounded on both sides on Saturday night, taking 80 of them to hospital. The Civil Defence said it had helped 114 others. FINAL UPDATE: 18 ambulances, 80 EMTs and 6 dispatchers from the LRC responded to the protests in downtown Beirut. Over 80 victims have been transported to nearby hospitals and over 140 injured were treated at the scene. LRC teams are still on standby and ready to respond. pic.twitter.com/p1OG7WFqwl — Lebanese Red Cross (@RedCrossLebanon) January 18, 2020 × Smoke enveloped a commercial district of the capital as security forces fired volleys of tear gas and unleashed water cannons. Riot police chased after men and women near Lebanon's parliament late into the night. [ A riot police kicks a tear gas canister during a protest against a ruling elite (Courtesy: Reuters) ] Protesters, with their faces covered, hurled stones, steel barriers and flower pots. They ripped branches off trees and signposts off the ground, charging at riot police. In three months of protests, which have gripped the country and pushed Prime Minister Saad Hariri to quit, politicians wrangling over cabinet seats have failed to agree on a new government or a rescue plan. Meanwhile, the crisis is biting: the Lebanese pound has lost nearly half its value, dollar shortages have driven up prices and confidence in the banking system has collapsed.

Over 300 people wounded in Beirut protest clashes: Lebanese Red Cross

The partnership between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/renault-nissan-alliance-in-flux-a-year-after-ghosn-shock-262664">Renault</a> and Nissan is "not dead", the alliance's president has insisted, after reports of a potential split in the wake of the Carlos Ghosn scandal.

Jean-Dominique Senard said that reports <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/japanese-auto-major-nissan-orders-drastic-spending-cuts-271085">Nissan</a> is mulling plans for a possible break-away had "no connection to the current situation of the alliance".

"The Renault-Nissan alliance is not dead! Soon we will show you why," he said in an interview with Belgian daily L'Echo published Tuesday.

"I ask myself, where does this sort of information come from? I am not sure it comes from a place of goodwill," Senard said.

Britain's Financial Times, citing "several people with knowledge of the matter", said on Monday that senior executives at the scandal-hit Japanese automaker were speeding up work on secret plans for a potential divorce with French partner Renault.

In early trading in Tokyo on Tuesday, Nissan fell 1.77 percent, while Renault stocks finished 2.8 percent lower in Paris.

The reports come after former alliance chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/carlos-ghosn-rearrested-in-japan-over-fresh-allegations-185576">Ghosn</a> jumped bail and fled Japan, where he was awaiting trial on financial misconduct charges.

His shock arrival in his native Lebanon prompted outrage from the Japanese government as well as from Nissan.

Ghosn alleges the charges against him were cooked up by disgruntled Nissan executives opposed to his plans to more closely align the Japanese firm with its French partner.

At a press conference in Lebanon last week, he slammed the state of the alliance he once led, saying it had been gutted and left directionless.

The 20-year partnership between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/renault-nissan-to-work-with-googles-waymo-on-driverless-cars-report-195389">Nissan and Renault</a>, whose alliance is based on cross-shareholdings without a joint structure, has been badly shaken by the scandal.

But Senard said the alliance was "nowhere near" the point of collapse and insisted its leaders were busy "recreating its original spirit" and planning future investments.

On Tuesday, a Nissan spokeswoman declined to comment, saying: "We don't comment on speculation."

A source close to the company told AFP the leaks probably came from "a few disgruntled souls" inside Nissan who wanted to "vent their frustration", adding that rebuilding trust between the two firms "will take time".

The partnership between Renault and Nissan is "not dead", the alliance's president has insisted, after reports of a potential split in the wake of the Carlos Ghosn scandal.

The partnership between Renault and Nissan is "not dead", the alliance's president has insisted, after reports of a potential split in the wake of the Carlos Ghosn scandal. Jean-Dominique Senard said that reports Nissan is mulling plans for a possible break-away had "no connection to the current situation of the alliance". "The Renault-Nissan alliance is not dead! Soon we will show you why," he said in an interview with Belgian daily L'Echo published Tuesday. "I ask myself, where does this sort of information come from? I am not sure it comes from a place of goodwill," Senard said. Britain's Financial Times, citing "several people with knowledge of the matter", said on Monday that senior executives at the scandal-hit Japanese automaker were speeding up work on secret plans for a potential divorce with French partner Renault. In early trading in Tokyo on Tuesday, Nissan fell 1.77 percent, while Renault stocks finished 2.8 percent lower in Paris. The reports come after former alliance chief Ghosn jumped bail and fled Japan, where he was awaiting trial on financial misconduct charges. His shock arrival in his native Lebanon prompted outrage from the Japanese government as well as from Nissan. Ghosn alleges the charges against him were cooked up by disgruntled Nissan executives opposed to his plans to more closely align the Japanese firm with its French partner. At a press conference in Lebanon last week, he slammed the state of the alliance he once led, saying it had been gutted and left directionless. The 20-year partnership between Nissan and Renault, whose alliance is based on cross-shareholdings without a joint structure, has been badly shaken by the scandal. But Senard said the alliance was "nowhere near" the point of collapse and insisted its leaders were busy "recreating its original spirit" and planning future investments. On Tuesday, a Nissan spokeswoman declined to comment, saying: "We don't comment on speculation." A source close to the company told AFP the leaks probably came from "a few disgruntled souls" inside Nissan who wanted to "vent their frustration", adding that rebuilding trust between the two firms "will take time".

Renault-Nissan president denies reports of potential split

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../wasnt-aware-of-anything-carlos-ghosns-wife-on -husbands-escape-after-japanese-authorities-issue-arrest-warrant-for-her- ...">Lebanon</a> banned former auto tycoon Carlos Ghosn from travelling on Thursday after questioning him over an Interpol "red notice" of charges of financial misconduct in Japan, judicial sources said.

The 65-year-old businessman,&nbsp;for years venerated in Japan for turning around once-ailing Nissan,&nbsp;fled while awaiting trial on charges including allegedly under-reporting his compensation to the tune of $85 million.

His shock arrival in his native Lebanon last month was the latest twist in a story worthy of a Hollywood plot and prompted outrage from the Japanese government as well as from Nissan.

"The state prosecution issued a travel ban for Ghosn, and asked for his file from the Japanese authorities," said a judicial source.

A second judicial source said, "He has been banned from travelling until his judicial file arrives from Japan."

"According to what is inside the file, if it appears that the crimes he is accused of in Japan require being pursued in Lebanon, he will be tried," the source added.

"But if it doesn't require being pursued under Lebanese law, then he will be free."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-nissan-chairman-carlos-ghosn-holds-first-press-conference-since-escape-from-japan-273012">There was no way I was going to be treated fairly: Former Nissan chairman Carlos Ghosn</a>

Lebanon's judiciary received a "red notice" from Interpol last week urging Ghosn's arrest.

A "red notice" is a request to police across the world to provisionally arrest a person pending extradition, surrender or similar legal action. It is not an arrest warrant.

Lebanon does not have an extradition agreement with Japan.

Ghosn also made a statement to prosecutors on a report submitted by Lebanese lawyers that he had travelled to neighbouring Israel as head of Renault-Nissan.

Lebanon and neighbouring Israel are still technically at war, and Beirut has forbidden its citizens from visiting or having contacts.

In early 2008, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../carlos-ghosn-fled-by-bullet-train-japan-vows-to -bolster-borders-272500">Ghosn</a> travelled to Israel to announce the mass production of electric vehicles there with the cooperation of Renault-Nissan.

At a press conference in Beirut on Wednesday, Ghosn apologised to the Lebanese people for having visited the neighbouring country.

He said he went as the head of Renault.

"I went as a Frenchman because of a contract between Renault and an Israeli company," said Ghosn, who holds French, Lebanese and Brazilian nationalities.

"I always come back to Lebanon and nothing has ever happened before," he said.

Lebanon banned former auto tycoon Carlos Ghosn from travelling on Thursday after questioning him over an Interpol "red notice" of charges of financial misconduct in Japan, judicial sources said.

Lebanon banned former auto tycoon Carlos Ghosn from travelling on Thursday after questioning him over an Interpol "red notice" of charges of financial misconduct in Japan, judicial sources said. The 65-year-old businessman, for years venerated in Japan for turning around once-ailing Nissan, fled while awaiting trial on charges including allegedly under-reporting his compensation to the tune of $85 million. His shock arrival in his native Lebanon last month was the latest twist in a story worthy of a Hollywood plot and prompted outrage from the Japanese government as well as from Nissan. "The state prosecution issued a travel ban for Ghosn, and asked for his file from the Japanese authorities," said a judicial source. A second judicial source said, "He has been banned from travelling until his judicial file arrives from Japan." "According to what is inside the file, if it appears that the crimes he is accused of in Japan require being pursued in Lebanon, he will be tried," the source added. "But if it doesn't require being pursued under Lebanese law, then he will be free." Also Read: There was no way I was going to be treated fairly: Former Nissan chairman Carlos Ghosn Lebanon's judiciary received a "red notice" from Interpol last week urging Ghosn's arrest. A "red notice" is a request to police across the world to provisionally arrest a person pending extradition, surrender or similar legal action. It is not an arrest warrant. Lebanon does not have an extradition agreement with Japan. Ghosn also made a statement to prosecutors on a report submitted by Lebanese lawyers that he had travelled to neighbouring Israel as head of Renault-Nissan. Lebanon and neighbouring Israel are still technically at war, and Beirut has forbidden its citizens from visiting or having contacts. In early 2008, Ghosn travelled to Israel to announce the mass production of electric vehicles there with the cooperation of Renault-Nissan. At a press conference in Beirut on Wednesday, Ghosn apologised to the Lebanese people for having visited the neighbouring country. He said he went as the head of Renault. "I went as a Frenchman because of a contract between Renault and an Israeli company," said Ghosn, who holds French, Lebanese and Brazilian nationalities. "I always come back to Lebanon and nothing has ever happened before," he said.

Lebanon bans Carlos Ghosn from foreign travel

Former-Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn on Wednesday made his first public appearance at a press conference in Beirut since skipping bail in Japan.

"I am not here to talk about how I fled Japan," he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unexpected-surprise-how-did-nissan-boss-carlos-ghosn-escape-to-lebanon-271401">'Unexpected surprise' - How did Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn escape to Lebanon?&nbsp;</a>

Attacking Japan’s justice system Ghosn said that I have been a victim of injustice, political persecution and 'ripped' from friends, family.

Ghosn said that he is 'ready to stay a long time' in Lebanon'.

Talking about the 'plot' to oust him he said that he does not believe that Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was involved in anything like that.

"The collusion between Nissan and prosecutors is everywhere," Ghosn said, claiming his arrest in Japan was "staged".

"There was no way I was going to be treated fairly ... this was not about justice. I felt I was a hostage of the country that I have served for 17 years," he said.

Ousted Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn stunned the world with his surprise escape to Lebanon last month.&nbsp;

Ghosn, while awaiting trial, eluded media and authorities to escape to Lebanon when, as per his lawyer Junichiro Hironaka, all three of his passports were in possession of the lawyers.

Ghosn is unlikely to be forced to return to Japan in the absence of an extradition treaty between Lebanon and Japan.

The former auto executive was initially arrested in Tokyo in November 2018. He faces four charges which include hiding income and enriching himself through payments to Middle East dealerships. Ghosn denies all charges.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former-Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn on Wednesday made his first public appearance at a press conference in Beirut since skipping bail in Japan. "I am not here to talk about how I fled Japan," he said.

Former-Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn on Wednesday made his first public appearance at a press conference in Beirut since skipping bail in Japan. "I am not here to talk about how I fled Japan," he said. Also read: 'Unexpected surprise' - How did Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn escape to Lebanon? Attacking Japan’s justice system Ghosn said that I have been a victim of injustice, political persecution and 'ripped' from friends, family. Ghosn said that he is 'ready to stay a long time' in Lebanon'. Talking about the 'plot' to oust him he said that he does not believe that Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was involved in anything like that. "The collusion between Nissan and prosecutors is everywhere," Ghosn said, claiming his arrest in Japan was "staged". "There was no way I was going to be treated fairly ... this was not about justice. I felt I was a hostage of the country that I have served for 17 years," he said. Ousted Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn stunned the world with his surprise escape to Lebanon last month. Ghosn, while awaiting trial, eluded media and authorities to escape to Lebanon when, as per his lawyer Junichiro Hironaka, all three of his passports were in possession of the lawyers. Ghosn is unlikely to be forced to return to Japan in the absence of an extradition treaty between Lebanon and Japan. The former auto executive was initially arrested in Tokyo in November 2018. He faces four charges which include hiding income and enriching himself through payments to Middle East dealerships. Ghosn denies all charges. (With inputs from agencies)

There was no way I was going to be treated fairly: Former Nissan chairman Carlos Ghosn

Carole Ghosn, former Nissan chief Carlos Ghosn's wife, has said that she did not know about her husband's <a href="http://wionews.com/world/japan-to-seek-help-from-lebanon-over-fugitive-carlos-ghosn-272709">mysterious escape from Japan</a> to Lebanon last month.&nbsp;

Carole remarks came after Japanese prosecutors issued an arrest warrant against her in the case.&nbsp;

Mrs Ghosn told a French newspaper that she was in Beirut with her children for Christmas when she received a call about her husband's escape which she described as the best surprise "in all my life!"&nbsp;

"Fleeing was the only possible choice as he saw his trial being postponed indefinitely and he was being detained in conditions that deprived him of his rights with the aim of dehumanising him," she said as reported by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unexpected-surprise-how-did-nissan-boss-carlos-ghosn-escape-to-lebanon-271401">'Unexpected surprise' - How did Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn escape to Lebanon?&nbsp;</a>

She alleged that her husband is a victim of an "industrial plot and the war between Renault and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ghosns-escape-extremely-regrettable-nissan-272597">Nissan</a>", adding that he cannot plead guilty for something that he did not do.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Carlos Ghosn is expected to hold a press conference in Lebanon on Wednesday. This will be the first time when Ghosn will be holding a public conference after fleeing from Japan where he is facing trial.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

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"I have not fled justice - I have escaped injustice and political persecution. I can now finally communicate freely with the media, and look forward to starting next week," Ghosn said after landing in Beirut.&nbsp;

Ousted Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn stunned the world with his surprise escape to Lebanon last month.&nbsp;

Ghosn, while awaiting trial, eluded media and authorities to escape to Lebanon when, as per his lawyer Junichiro Hironaka, all three of his passports were in possession of the lawyers.

Ghosn is unlikely to be forced to return to Japan in the absence of an extradition treaty between Lebanon and Japan.

The former auto executive was initially arrested in Tokyo in November 2018. He faces four charges which include hiding income and enriching himself through payments to Middle East dealerships. Ghosn denies all charges.&nbsp;

Carole Ghosn, former Nissan chief Carlos Ghosn's wife, has said that she did not know about her husband's mysterious escape from Japan to Lebanon last month. Carole remarks came after Japanese prosecutors issued an arrest warrant against her in the case.

Carole Ghosn, former Nissan chief Carlos Ghosn's wife, has said that she did not know about her husband's mysterious escape from Japan to Lebanon last month. Carole remarks came after Japanese prosecutors issued an arrest warrant against her in the case. Mrs Ghosn told a French newspaper that she was in Beirut with her children for Christmas when she received a call about her husband's escape which she described as the best surprise "in all my life!" "Fleeing was the only possible choice as he saw his trial being postponed indefinitely and he was being detained in conditions that deprived him of his rights with the aim of dehumanising him," she said as reported by news agency AFP. Also read: 'Unexpected surprise' - How did Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn escape to Lebanon? She alleged that her husband is a victim of an "industrial plot and the war between Renault and Nissan", adding that he cannot plead guilty for something that he did not do. Meanwhile, Carlos Ghosn is expected to hold a press conference in Lebanon on Wednesday. This will be the first time when Ghosn will be holding a public conference after fleeing from Japan where he is facing trial. × "I have not fled justice - I have escaped injustice and political persecution. I can now finally communicate freely with the media, and look forward to starting next week," Ghosn said after landing in Beirut. Ousted Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn stunned the world with his surprise escape to Lebanon last month. Ghosn, while awaiting trial, eluded media and authorities to escape to Lebanon when, as per his lawyer Junichiro Hironaka, all three of his passports were in possession of the lawyers. Ghosn is unlikely to be forced to return to Japan in the absence of an extradition treaty between Lebanon and Japan. The former auto executive was initially arrested in Tokyo in November 2018. He faces four charges which include hiding income and enriching himself through payments to Middle East dealerships. Ghosn denies all charges.

Wasn't aware of anything: Carlos Ghosn's wife after Japanese authorities issue arrest warrant for her

Japanese automaker Nissan on Tuesday slammed its former chief Carlos Ghosn for jumping bail, calling his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/carlos-ghosn-fled-by-bullet-train-japan-vows-to-bolster-borders-272500">escape</a> "extremely regrettable" and vowing continued legal action to hold him accountable.

Ghosn, who faced trial on financial misconduct charges that he denies, fled Japan on December 29 for Lebanon, in an elaborate and apparently carefully planned escape.

Watch:&nbsp;'The Great Escape' of ex-Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn

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His bail-jumping has prompted outrage from Japanese officials, but he insists that he would have been unable to receive a fair trial in Japan.&nbsp;

In a statement, Nissan said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Former+Nissan+boss+Carlos+Ghosn+reportedly+escaped+Tokyo+on+public+bullet+train">Ghosn's escape</a> "in violation of his bail conditions is an act that defies Japan's judicial system. Nissan finds it extremely regrettable."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unexpected-surprise-how-did-nissan-boss-carlos-ghosn-escape-to-lebanon-271401">'Unexpected surprise': How did Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn escape to Lebanon?&nbsp;</a>

The firm said its "robust, thorough internal investigation" had "incontrovertible evidence of various acts of misconduct by Ghosn".

"The company will continue to take appropriate legal action to hold Ghosn accountable for the harm that his misconduct has caused to Nissan," it added.

Ghosn alleges that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unexpected-surprise-nissan-boss-carlos-ghosn-flees-to-lebanon-japan-calls-it-cowardly-act-271393">charges against him</a> stem from a "coup" inside Nissan by disgruntled executives and local Japanese officials who feared his plans to more closely integrate the Japanese automaker with its alliance partner, French firm Renault.

Ghosn is due to give a press conference in Beirut on Wednesday, where he has said he will provide details about the alleged "coup" against him.

Japanese automaker Nissan on Tuesday slammed its former chief Carlos Ghosn for jumping bail, calling his escape "extremely regrettable" and vowing continued legal action to hold him accountable.

Japanese automaker Nissan on Tuesday slammed its former chief Carlos Ghosn for jumping bail, calling his escape "extremely regrettable" and vowing continued legal action to hold him accountable. Ghosn, who faced trial on financial misconduct charges that he denies, fled Japan on December 29 for Lebanon, in an elaborate and apparently carefully planned escape. Watch: 'The Great Escape' of ex-Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn His bail-jumping has prompted outrage from Japanese officials, but he insists that he would have been unable to receive a fair trial in Japan. In a statement, Nissan said Ghosn's escape "in violation of his bail conditions is an act that defies Japan's judicial system. Nissan finds it extremely regrettable." Also read: 'Unexpected surprise': How did Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn escape to Lebanon? The firm said its "robust, thorough internal investigation" had "incontrovertible evidence of various acts of misconduct by Ghosn". "The company will continue to take appropriate legal action to hold Ghosn accountable for the harm that his misconduct has caused to Nissan," it added. Ghosn alleges that the charges against him stem from a "coup" inside Nissan by disgruntled executives and local Japanese officials who feared his plans to more closely integrate the Japanese automaker with its alliance partner, French firm Renault. Ghosn is due to give a press conference in Beirut on Wednesday, where he has said he will provide details about the alleged "coup" against him.

Ghosn's escape 'extremely regrettable': Nissan

Japan&nbsp;has&nbsp;asked&nbsp;Lebanon&nbsp;for&nbsp;help&nbsp;regarding <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ghosns-escape-extremely-regrettable-nissan-272597">Carlos&nbsp;Ghosn</a>, a top&nbsp;Japanese official said on Tuesday, calling the former auto executive's escape to Beirut "regrettable" but stopping short of spelling out what Tokyo was seeking&nbsp;from&nbsp;local authorities.

The former <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-to-tighten-immigration-procedures-after-ghosn-flees-country-272192">Nissan Motor Co Ltd</a>&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/fiat-chrysler-french-carmaker-psa-agree-on-mega-merger-268996">Renault SA</a>&nbsp; chairman became an international&nbsp;fugitive&nbsp;after he fled to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/carlos-ghosn-fled-by-bullet-train-japan-vows-to-bolster-borders-272500">Lebanon</a>, his childhood home, last week to escape what he called a "rigged" justice system in&nbsp;Japan, where he faces multiple charges related to financial misconduct.

He&nbsp;has&nbsp;denied any wrongdoing and&nbsp;has&nbsp;said he was the victim of "backstabbing" and a "conspiracy" that wanted to derail his efforts to bring the two automakers towards a merger.

Japanese authorities said on Monday they may press for&nbsp;Ghosn's extradition&nbsp;from&nbsp;Lebanon&nbsp;to face the charges, even though the Middle Eastern country does not normally extradite its nationals.

On Tuesday,&nbsp;Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-to-send-warship-planes-to-middle-east-to-protect-vessels-270515">Yoshihide Suga</a>, sidestepped questions about what exactly&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;had asked of&nbsp;Lebanon&nbsp;beyond "finding out the truth".

"It's necessary to carefully consider the legal systems of both countries," he told a news conference, referring to any requests for the extradition of a&nbsp;fugitive.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-to-tighten-immigration-procedures-after-ghosn-flees-country-272192">Ghosn</a>&nbsp;is due to speak to the media in&nbsp;Lebanon&nbsp;on Wednesday where he is widely expected to detail some of the claims he&nbsp;has&nbsp;made against Nissan since his arrest in November 2018.

Citing an interview with&nbsp;Ghosn, Fox Business reported that the former executive said he&nbsp;has&nbsp;"actual evidence" and documents to show there was a&nbsp;Japanese government-backed coup to "take him out". He plans to identify those he believes responsible at a news conference, the broadcaster reported.

Separately, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/ghosn-fled-japan-after-security-firm-hired-by-nissan-stopped-surveillance-sources-272140">Nissan</a> said&nbsp;Ghosn's flight&nbsp;from&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;would not affect its policy of holding him responsible for "serious misconduct".

"The company will continue to take appropriate legal action to hold&nbsp;Ghosn&nbsp;accountable for the harm that his misconduct&nbsp;has&nbsp;caused to Nissan," the&nbsp;Japanese automaker said in a statement.

Japan has asked Lebanon for help regarding Carlos Ghosn, a top Japanese official said on Tuesday, calling the former auto executive's escape to Beirut "regrettable" but stopping short of spelling out what Tokyo was seeking from local authorities.

Japan has asked Lebanon for help regarding Carlos Ghosn, a top Japanese official said on Tuesday, calling the former auto executive's escape to Beirut "regrettable" but stopping short of spelling out what Tokyo was seeking from local authorities. The former Nissan Motor Co Ltd and Renault SA chairman became an international fugitive after he fled to Lebanon, his childhood home, last week to escape what he called a "rigged" justice system in Japan, where he faces multiple charges related to financial misconduct. He has denied any wrongdoing and has said he was the victim of "backstabbing" and a "conspiracy" that wanted to derail his efforts to bring the two automakers towards a merger. Japanese authorities said on Monday they may press for Ghosn's extradition from Lebanon to face the charges, even though the Middle Eastern country does not normally extradite its nationals. On Tuesday, Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary, Yoshihide Suga, sidestepped questions about what exactly Japan had asked of Lebanon beyond "finding out the truth". "It's necessary to carefully consider the legal systems of both countries," he told a news conference, referring to any requests for the extradition of a fugitive. Ghosn is due to speak to the media in Lebanon on Wednesday where he is widely expected to detail some of the claims he has made against Nissan since his arrest in November 2018. Citing an interview with Ghosn, Fox Business reported that the former executive said he has "actual evidence" and documents to show there was a Japanese government-backed coup to "take him out". He plans to identify those he believes responsible at a news conference, the broadcaster reported. Separately, Nissan said Ghosn's flight from Japan would not affect its policy of holding him responsible for "serious misconduct". "The company will continue to take appropriate legal action to hold Ghosn accountable for the harm that his misconduct has caused to Nissan," the Japanese automaker said in a statement.

Japan to seek 'help' from Lebanon over fugitive Carlos Ghosn

Japan's Justice Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/second-minister-in-a-week-resigns-from-japan-cabinet-258957">Masako Mori</a> said on Sunday the ministry has ordered&nbsp;tightening&nbsp;of&nbsp;immigration&nbsp;procedures&nbsp;in the wake of the escape of ousted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/ghosn-fled-japan-after-security-firm-hired-by-nissan-stopped-surveillance-sources-272140">Nissan Motor</a> Co boss Carlos&nbsp;Ghosn.

Mori also said in a&nbsp;statement&nbsp;Ghosn's "apparently illegal" departure was very regrettable and promised a thorough investigation to uncover the truth, adding that there was no record of his leaving&nbsp;Japan.

She also said that&nbsp;Ghosn's skipping bail cannot be justified and that the court has revoked his bail.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fugitive-carlos-ghosn-to-be-summoned-by-lebanese-judiciary-official-271961">Ghosn</a>&nbsp;became an international fugitive&nbsp;after&nbsp;he revealed on Tuesday he had fled to Lebanon to escape what he called a "rigged" justice system in&nbsp;Japan, where he faces charges relating to alleged financial crimes.

Japan's Justice Minister Masako Mori said on Sunday the ministry has ordered tightening of immigration procedures in the wake of the escape of ousted Nissan Motor Co boss Carlos Ghosn.

Japan's Justice Minister Masako Mori said on Sunday the ministry has ordered tightening of immigration procedures in the wake of the escape of ousted Nissan Motor Co boss Carlos Ghosn. Mori also said in a statement Ghosn's "apparently illegal" departure was very regrettable and promised a thorough investigation to uncover the truth, adding that there was no record of his leaving Japan. She also said that Ghosn's skipping bail cannot be justified and that the court has revoked his bail. Ghosn became an international fugitive after he revealed on Tuesday he had fled to Lebanon to escape what he called a "rigged" justice system in Japan, where he faces charges relating to alleged financial crimes.

Japan to tighten immigration procedures after Carlos Ghosn flees country

Ousted Nissan boss <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fugitive-carlos-ghosn-to-be-summoned-by-lebanese-judiciary-official-271961">Carlos Ghosn</a> left his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/safe-haven-yen-lifted-us-dollar-hits-in-grim-data-after-qassem-soleimani-strike-272054">Tokyo</a> residence after a private security firm hired by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ghosn-used-our-jets-illegally-in-escape-from-japan-turkish-company-says-271956">Nissan Motor Co</a> stopped monitoring him, three sources familiar with the matter told media on Saturday.

Ghosn has become an international fugitive after he revealed on Tuesday he had fled to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-receives-interpol-arrest-warrant-for-carlos-ghosn-271708">Lebanon</a> to escape what he called a "rigged" justice system in Japan, where he faces charges relating to alleged financial crimes.

Nissan had hired a private security company to watch Ghosn, who was on bail and awaiting trial, to check whether he met any people involved in the case, the three sources said.

But his lawyers warned the security company to stop watching him as it would be a violation of his human rights, and Ghosn was planning to file a complaint against the company, the sources said.

The security company stopped its surveillance by December&nbsp;29, the sources said.

One of his lawyers, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unexpected-surprise-nissan-boss-carlos-ghosn-flees-to-lebanon-japan-calls-it-cowardly-act-271393">Junichiro Hironaka</a>, told reporters in November that they were considering steps to prevent people from stalking Ghosn.

A Nissan spokesperson declined to comment.

Japanese public broadcaster NHK, citing investigative sources, said a surveillance camera placed by the authorities in Ghosn's home showed him leaving alone around noon on Sunday, and did not show him returning.

It is unclear how Ghosn, who holds French, Brazilian and Lebanese citizenship, was able to orchestrate his departure from Japan. He entered Lebanon legally on a French passport, one source has told media.

A Turkish private jet operator said on Friday that Ghosn used two of its planes <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ghosn-used-our-jets-illegally-in-escape-from-japan-turkish-company-says-271956">illegally</a> in his escape from Japan, with an employee falsifying lease records to exclude his name from the documents.

Ghosn has said he will speak publicly about his escape on January&nbsp;8.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/one-year-after-arrest-ghosn-seeks-to-throw-out-case-against-him-262666">Takashi Takano</a>, who is also one of Ghosn's lawyers, wrote in his blog on Saturday that he felt infuriated and betrayed when he found out about Ghosn's escape from Japan but that he felt some understanding.

"I was betrayed. But it is not Carlos Ghosn who betrayed me," he wrote in his blog.

Takano said Ghosn was not allowed to communicate with his wife Carole without permission and the ex-Nissan boss was also concerned about his chances of getting a fair trial.

On December 24, Ghosn and his wife held a one-hour video call, which required a lawyer's presence, and they talked about their children, relatives and friends, Takano wrote. Takano was present during the video call.

Few people would have been able to escape as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-alone-organised-my-departure-from-japan-fugitive-carlos-ghosn-271734">Ghosn</a> did, but if they had the means and contacts, they certainly might try or at least consider trying, Takano wrote.

Ghosn was first arrested in Tokyo in November 2018, shortly after his private jet touched down at the airport. He faces four charges, which he denies&nbsp;including hiding income and enriching himself through payments to dealerships in the Middle East.

Ousted Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn left his Tokyo residence after a private security firm hired by Nissan Motor Co stopped monitoring him, three sources familiar with the matter told media on Saturday.

Ousted Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn left his Tokyo residence after a private security firm hired by Nissan Motor Co stopped monitoring him, three sources familiar with the matter told media on Saturday. Ghosn has become an international fugitive after he revealed on Tuesday he had fled to Lebanon to escape what he called a "rigged" justice system in Japan, where he faces charges relating to alleged financial crimes. Nissan had hired a private security company to watch Ghosn, who was on bail and awaiting trial, to check whether he met any people involved in the case, the three sources said. But his lawyers warned the security company to stop watching him as it would be a violation of his human rights, and Ghosn was planning to file a complaint against the company, the sources said. The security company stopped its surveillance by December 29, the sources said. One of his lawyers, Junichiro Hironaka, told reporters in November that they were considering steps to prevent people from stalking Ghosn. A Nissan spokesperson declined to comment. Japanese public broadcaster NHK, citing investigative sources, said a surveillance camera placed by the authorities in Ghosn's home showed him leaving alone around noon on Sunday, and did not show him returning. It is unclear how Ghosn, who holds French, Brazilian and Lebanese citizenship, was able to orchestrate his departure from Japan. He entered Lebanon legally on a French passport, one source has told media. A Turkish private jet operator said on Friday that Ghosn used two of its planes illegally in his escape from Japan, with an employee falsifying lease records to exclude his name from the documents. Ghosn has said he will speak publicly about his escape on January 8. Takashi Takano, who is also one of Ghosn's lawyers, wrote in his blog on Saturday that he felt infuriated and betrayed when he found out about Ghosn's escape from Japan but that he felt some understanding. "I was betrayed. But it is not Carlos Ghosn who betrayed me," he wrote in his blog. Takano said Ghosn was not allowed to communicate with his wife Carole without permission and the ex-Nissan boss was also concerned about his chances of getting a fair trial. On December 24, Ghosn and his wife held a one-hour video call, which required a lawyer's presence, and they talked about their children, relatives and friends, Takano wrote. Takano was present during the video call. Few people would have been able to escape as Ghosn did, but if they had the means and contacts, they certainly might try or at least consider trying, Takano wrote. Ghosn was first arrested in Tokyo in November 2018, shortly after his private jet touched down at the airport. He faces four charges, which he denies including hiding income and enriching himself through payments to dealerships in the Middle East.

Ghosn fled Japan after security firm hired by Nissan stopped surveillance: Sources

Fugitive former Nissan chairman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unexpected-surprise-nissan-boss-carlos-ghosn-flees-to-lebanon-japan-calls-it-cowardly-act-271393">Carlos&nbsp;Ghosn</a>&nbsp;met&nbsp;Lebanon's&nbsp;president&nbsp;after&nbsp;fleeing&nbsp;from&nbsp;Japan, where he was smuggled out of house arrest by a private security company, two&nbsp;sources&nbsp;close to&nbsp;Ghosn&nbsp;said on Wednesday.

Also Watch:&nbsp;'The Great Escape' of Carlos Ghosn

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One of the&nbsp;sources&nbsp;said&nbsp;Ghosn&nbsp;was greeted warmly by&nbsp;President&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-pm-designate-begins-tough-talks-to-form-government-269503">Michel Aoun</a> on Monday&nbsp;after&nbsp;flying into Beirut via Istanbul and was now in a buoyant and combative mood and felt secure.

The plan to slip&nbsp;Ghosn&nbsp;out of&nbsp;Japan, which marked the latest twist in a year-old saga that has shaken the global auto industry, was crafted over three months, the two&nbsp;sources&nbsp;said.

"It was a very professional operation from start to finish," one of them said.

In his meeting at the presidency,&nbsp;Ghosn&nbsp;thanked Aoun for the support he had given him and his wife Carole while he was in detention, the&nbsp;sources&nbsp;said. He now needs the protection and security of his government&nbsp;after&nbsp;fleeing&nbsp;Japan, the&nbsp;sources&nbsp;added.

The meeting between Aoun and&nbsp;Ghosn&nbsp;has not been made public and a media adviser to the&nbsp;president's office denied the two men had&nbsp;met. The two&nbsp;sources&nbsp;said specifics of the meeting were described to them by&nbsp;Ghosn.

Ghosn&nbsp;could not be reached for comment on the meeting and has been silent publicly other than to issue a written statement shortly&nbsp;after&nbsp;his arrival saying he had "escaped injustice and political persecution."

Lebanese&nbsp;officials have said there would be no need to take legal measures against&nbsp;Ghosn&nbsp;because he entered the country legally on a French passport, although&nbsp;Ghosn's French,&nbsp;Lebanese&nbsp;and Brazilian passports are with lawyers in&nbsp;Japan.

The French and&nbsp;Lebanese&nbsp;foreign ministries have said they were unaware of the circumstances of his journey.

Lebanon has no extradition agreement with&nbsp;Japan.

Ghosn&nbsp;was first arrested in Tokyo in November 2018 and faces four charges,&nbsp;which he denies,&nbsp;including hiding income and enriching himself through payments to car dealerships in the Middle East.

He has enjoyed an outpouring of support from Lebanon since his 2018 arrest, with billboards proclaiming, "We are all Carlos&nbsp;Ghosn" erected in solidarity with his case.

Under the terms of his bail, he had been confined to his house in Tokyo and had to have cameras installed at the entrance. He was prevented from communicating with his wife, Carole, and had his use of the internet and other communications curtailed.

The&nbsp;sources&nbsp;said the&nbsp;Lebanese&nbsp;ambassador to&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;had visited him daily while he was in detention.

While some&nbsp;Lebanese&nbsp;media have floated a Houdini-like account of&nbsp;Ghosn&nbsp;being packed in a wooden container for musical instruments&nbsp;after&nbsp;a private concert in his home, his wife called the account "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ousted-nissan-chief-carlos-ghosn-flies-to-lebanon-271146">fiction</a>".

She declined to provide details of the exit of one of the most recognised titans of industry. The accounts of the two&nbsp;sources&nbsp;suggest a carefully planned escape known only to a few.

They said a private security firm oversaw the plan, which involved shuttling&nbsp;Ghosn&nbsp;out via a private jet to Istanbul before pushing onward to Beirut, with even the pilot unaware of&nbsp;Ghosn's presence on board.

An attorney for&nbsp;Ghosn&nbsp;said he would hold a news conference in Beirut on January&nbsp;8. The&nbsp;sources&nbsp;close to&nbsp;Ghosn, however, said a date for the news conference had yet to be finalised. They said&nbsp;Ghosn&nbsp;was unwilling to share details of his escape so as not to jeopardise those who aided him in&nbsp;Japan.

He is staying at the home of a relative of his wife, but plans to return soon to a gated villa in the upscale Beirut neighbourhood of Achrafieh, one of the&nbsp;sources&nbsp;said.

Nissan sacked&nbsp;Ghosn&nbsp;as chairman, saying internal investigations revealed misconduct including understating his salary while he was its chief executive, and transferring $5 million of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/japanese-auto-major-nissan-orders-drastic-spending-cuts-271085">Nissan</a> funds to an account in which he had an interest.

In Lebanon,&nbsp;Ghosn&nbsp;is considered a poster boy for success in a country where rampant unemployment pushes young&nbsp;Lebanese&nbsp;abroad to find work and the economy relies heavily on remittances amid a deep financial crisis that has sparked a wave of protests.

Ghosn&nbsp;was born in Brazil of&nbsp;Lebanese&nbsp;descent and lived in Lebanon as a child. He oversaw a turnaround at French carmaker Renault that won him the nickname "Le Cost Killer" and used similar&nbsp;methods to revive Nissan.

Fugitive former Nissan chairman Carlos Ghosn met Lebanon's president after fleeing from Japan, where he was smuggled out of house arrest by a private security company, two sources close to Ghosn said on Wednesday.

Fugitive former Nissan chairman Carlos Ghosn met Lebanon's president after fleeing from Japan, where he was smuggled out of house arrest by a private security company, two sources close to Ghosn said on Wednesday. Also Watch: 'The Great Escape' of Carlos Ghosn × One of the sources said Ghosn was greeted warmly by President Michel Aoun on Monday after flying into Beirut via Istanbul and was now in a buoyant and combative mood and felt secure. The plan to slip Ghosn out of Japan, which marked the latest twist in a year-old saga that has shaken the global auto industry, was crafted over three months, the two sources said. "It was a very professional operation from start to finish," one of them said. In his meeting at the presidency, Ghosn thanked Aoun for the support he had given him and his wife Carole while he was in detention, the sources said. He now needs the protection and security of his government after fleeing Japan, the sources added. The meeting between Aoun and Ghosn has not been made public and a media adviser to the president's office denied the two men had met. The two sources said specifics of the meeting were described to them by Ghosn. Ghosn could not be reached for comment on the meeting and has been silent publicly other than to issue a written statement shortly after his arrival saying he had "escaped injustice and political persecution." Lebanese officials have said there would be no need to take legal measures against Ghosn because he entered the country legally on a French passport, although Ghosn's French, Lebanese and Brazilian passports are with lawyers in Japan. The French and Lebanese foreign ministries have said they were unaware of the circumstances of his journey. Lebanon has no extradition agreement with Japan. Ghosn was first arrested in Tokyo in November 2018 and faces four charges, which he denies, including hiding income and enriching himself through payments to car dealerships in the Middle East. He has enjoyed an outpouring of support from Lebanon since his 2018 arrest, with billboards proclaiming, "We are all Carlos Ghosn" erected in solidarity with his case. Under the terms of his bail, he had been confined to his house in Tokyo and had to have cameras installed at the entrance. He was prevented from communicating with his wife, Carole, and had his use of the internet and other communications curtailed. The sources said the Lebanese ambassador to Japan had visited him daily while he was in detention. While some Lebanese media have floated a Houdini-like account of Ghosn being packed in a wooden container for musical instruments after a private concert in his home, his wife called the account "fiction". She declined to provide details of the exit of one of the most recognised titans of industry. The accounts of the two sources suggest a carefully planned escape known only to a few. They said a private security firm oversaw the plan, which involved shuttling Ghosn out via a private jet to Istanbul before pushing onward to Beirut, with even the pilot unaware of Ghosn's presence on board. An attorney for Ghosn said he would hold a news conference in Beirut on January 8. The sources close to Ghosn, however, said a date for the news conference had yet to be finalised. They said Ghosn was unwilling to share details of his escape so as not to jeopardise those who aided him in Japan. He is staying at the home of a relative of his wife, but plans to return soon to a gated villa in the upscale Beirut neighbourhood of Achrafieh, one of the sources said. Nissan sacked Ghosn as chairman, saying internal investigations revealed misconduct including understating his salary while he was its chief executive, and transferring $5 million of Nissan funds to an account in which he had an interest. In Lebanon, Ghosn is considered a poster boy for success in a country where rampant unemployment pushes young Lebanese abroad to find work and the economy relies heavily on remittances amid a deep financial crisis that has sparked a wave of protests. Ghosn was born in Brazil of Lebanese descent and lived in Lebanon as a child. He oversaw a turnaround at French carmaker Renault that won him the nickname "Le Cost Killer" and used similar methods to revive Nissan.

Carlos Ghosn met Lebanese president after fleeing Japan: Sources

The fugitive <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-receives-interpol-arrest-warrant-for-carlos-ghosn-271708">Carlos Ghosn</a> who was also former&nbsp;Renault-Nissan's chairman&nbsp;is due to be summoned by Lebanon's public prosecutor next week as per officials. He had also skipped bail in Japan and fled to Beirut.&nbsp;

The Lebanese authorities have already stressed that Ghosn who holds the French, Lebanese and Brazilian nationalities had entered the country legally and that Beirut had no extradition agreement with Japan.

An official speaking to media on condition of anonymity said a summons was expected to be handed to Ghosn next week, as a result of Interpol issuing a "red notice" against him.

Watch:&nbsp;Interpol sends red notice to Lebanon about fugitive Carlos Ghosn

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"The Lebanese judiciary is obliged to hear him. But it can still decide whether to arrest him or let him remain free," the official said, adding that Ghosn could be heard on January 7 or 8.

Ghosn, once Japan's best-paid corporate executive, was arrested in November 2018 and has been under house arrest since April, facing multiple charges of financial misconduct.

Claiming the Japanese judiciary was "rigged" and that he would not receive a fair trial, Ghosn skipped bail on December 30 and flew to Beirut on a private jet.

The exact circumstances of his escape remain unclear.

The 65-year-old is due to talk to the press in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ousted-nissan-chief-carlos-ghosn-flies-to-lebanon-271146">Beirut</a> next week.

"I have not fled justice. I have escaped injustice and political persecution," said Ghosn in a December 31 statement.

An Interpol 'red notice' is a request to law enforcement across the world to provisionally arrest a person pending extradition, surrender or similar legal action. It is not an arrest warrant.

Japan is probing how <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-wont-extradite-ghosn-if-he-arrives-in-country-government-271678">Ghosn</a> was able to slip out and Turkey has also detained seven individuals over Ghosn's transit through Istanbul, where he changed private jets on his way to Lebanon.

Ghosn, who was born in Brazil, is well connected in Lebanon, where he owns stakes in several major business ventures and firms.

The fugitive Carlos Ghosn who was also former Renault-Nissan's chairman is due to be summoned by Lebanon's public prosecutor next week as per officials. He had also skipped bail in Japan and fled to Beirut.

The fugitive Carlos Ghosn who was also former Renault-Nissan's chairman is due to be summoned by Lebanon's public prosecutor next week as per officials. He had also skipped bail in Japan and fled to Beirut. The Lebanese authorities have already stressed that Ghosn who holds the French, Lebanese and Brazilian nationalities had entered the country legally and that Beirut had no extradition agreement with Japan. An official speaking to media on condition of anonymity said a summons was expected to be handed to Ghosn next week, as a result of Interpol issuing a "red notice" against him. Watch: Interpol sends red notice to Lebanon about fugitive Carlos Ghosn × "The Lebanese judiciary is obliged to hear him. But it can still decide whether to arrest him or let him remain free," the official said, adding that Ghosn could be heard on January 7 or 8. Ghosn, once Japan's best-paid corporate executive, was arrested in November 2018 and has been under house arrest since April, facing multiple charges of financial misconduct. Claiming the Japanese judiciary was "rigged" and that he would not receive a fair trial, Ghosn skipped bail on December 30 and flew to Beirut on a private jet. The exact circumstances of his escape remain unclear. The 65-year-old is due to talk to the press in Beirut next week. "I have not fled justice. I have escaped injustice and political persecution," said Ghosn in a December 31 statement. An Interpol 'red notice' is a request to law enforcement across the world to provisionally arrest a person pending extradition, surrender or similar legal action. It is not an arrest warrant. Japan is probing how Ghosn was able to slip out and Turkey has also detained seven individuals over Ghosn's transit through Istanbul, where he changed private jets on his way to Lebanon. Ghosn, who was born in Brazil, is well connected in Lebanon, where he owns stakes in several major business ventures and firms.

Fugitive Carlos Ghosn to be summoned by Lebanese judiciary: Official

As per the briefing of a&nbsp;turkish private jet operator, on Friday the ex-Nissan boss <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unexpected-surprise-how-did-nissan-boss-carlos-ghosn-escape-to-lebanon-271401">Carlos Ghosn</a> used two of its planes illegally in his escape from Japan, with an employee falsifying lease records to exclude his name from the documents.

MNG Jet said it had filed a criminal complaint about the incident, a day after Turkish police detained seven people, including four pilots, as part of an investigation into Ghosn's passage through Istanbul en route to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-alone-organised-my-departure-from-japan-fugitive-carlos-ghosn-271734">Lebanon</a>.

Ghosn has become an international fugitive after he revealed on Tuesday he had fled to Lebanon to escape what he called a "rigged" justice system in Japan, where he faces charges relating to alleged financial crimes.

Lebanon on Thursday received an Interpol arrest warrant for Ghosn, whose surprise escape from his home in Tokyo to a separate home in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-wont-extradite-ghosn-if-he-arrives-in-country-government-271678">Beirut</a> has not been fully explained.

Japanese public broadcaster NHK, citing investigative sources, said a surveillance camera captured the former Nissan Motor Co chairman leaving his Tokyo residence alone shortly before his escape.

The security footage was taken by a camera installed at his house in central Tokyo around noon on Sunday, and the camera did not show him returning home, NHK said.

By early Monday, he had touched down in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unexpected-surprise-nissan-boss-carlos-ghosn-flees-to-lebanon-japan-calls-it-cowardly-act-271393">Istanbul</a>.

MNG Jet said in its statement it leased two jets to two different clients in agreements that "were seemingly not connected to each other." One plane flew from Osaka to Istanbul, the other from Istanbul to Beirut.

"The name of Mr Ghosn did not appear in the official documentation of any of the flights," it said.

"After having learnt through the media that the leasing was benefiting Mr Ghosn and not the officially declared passengers, MNG Jet launched an internal inquiry and filed a criminal complaint in Turkey," it added.

An employee admitted to falsifying the records and confirmed he "acted in his individual capacity," the company said.

The pilots and other detainees, including two airport ground staff and one cargo worker, were sent to court on Friday after giving statements to police, according to a Reuters witness.

Ghosn has said he will speak publicly about his escape on January&nbsp;8.

Some Lebanese media have floated a Houdini-like account of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-receives-interpol-arrest-warrant-for-carlos-ghosn-271708">Ghosn</a> being packed in a wooden container for musical instruments after a private concert in his home, but his wife has called the account "fiction".

NHK said police suspected Ghosn may have left his home to meet up with someone before heading to an airport. Under the terms of his bail, Ghosn was required to have security cameras installed at the entrance of his house.

As per the briefing of a turkish private jet operator, on Friday the ex-Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn used two of its planes illegally in his escape from Japan, with an employee falsifying lease records to exclude his name from the documents.

As per the briefing of a turkish private jet operator, on Friday the ex-Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn used two of its planes illegally in his escape from Japan, with an employee falsifying lease records to exclude his name from the documents. MNG Jet said it had filed a criminal complaint about the incident, a day after Turkish police detained seven people, including four pilots, as part of an investigation into Ghosn's passage through Istanbul en route to Lebanon. Ghosn has become an international fugitive after he revealed on Tuesday he had fled to Lebanon to escape what he called a "rigged" justice system in Japan, where he faces charges relating to alleged financial crimes. Lebanon on Thursday received an Interpol arrest warrant for Ghosn, whose surprise escape from his home in Tokyo to a separate home in Beirut has not been fully explained. Japanese public broadcaster NHK, citing investigative sources, said a surveillance camera captured the former Nissan Motor Co chairman leaving his Tokyo residence alone shortly before his escape. The security footage was taken by a camera installed at his house in central Tokyo around noon on Sunday, and the camera did not show him returning home, NHK said. By early Monday, he had touched down in Istanbul. MNG Jet said in its statement it leased two jets to two different clients in agreements that "were seemingly not connected to each other." One plane flew from Osaka to Istanbul, the other from Istanbul to Beirut. "The name of Mr Ghosn did not appear in the official documentation of any of the flights," it said. "After having learnt through the media that the leasing was benefiting Mr Ghosn and not the officially declared passengers, MNG Jet launched an internal inquiry and filed a criminal complaint in Turkey," it added. An employee admitted to falsifying the records and confirmed he "acted in his individual capacity," the company said. The pilots and other detainees, including two airport ground staff and one cargo worker, were sent to court on Friday after giving statements to police, according to a Reuters witness. Ghosn has said he will speak publicly about his escape on January 8. Some Lebanese media have floated a Houdini-like account of Ghosn being packed in a wooden container for musical instruments after a private concert in his home, but his wife has called the account "fiction". NHK said police suspected Ghosn may have left his home to meet up with someone before heading to an airport. Under the terms of his bail, Ghosn was required to have security cameras installed at the entrance of his house.

Ghosn used two of our jets illegally his escape from Japan, says Turkish company

A wanted notice was delivered to Lebanese authorities on January 2 by Interpol for Carlos Ghosn, three days after the former head of Nissan jumped bail in Japan and surreptitiously fled to Beirut via Turkey. Seven people suspected of being accomplices in Ghosn's escape to Lebanon have been detained in Turkey. # CarlosGhosn #Lebanon #WION

Interpol sends red notice to Lebanon about fugitive Carlos Ghosn

Ousted Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn has stunned the world with his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unexpected-surprise-nissan-boss-carlos-ghosn-flees-to-lebanon-japan-calls-it-cowardly-act-271393">surprise escape to Lebanon</a>. Ghosn, while awaiting trial, eluded media and authorities to escape to Lebanon when, as per his lawyer Junichiro Hironaka, all three of his passports were in possession of the lawyers. In such a situation, the mystery around Ghosn's escape raises&nbsp;many questions and a flurry of speculations.

Media reports across the globe are busy speculating possible ways which Ghosn could have taken to flee Japan and outwit strict Japanese surveillance.&nbsp;

While some outlandish theories in Lebanese media suggest Ghosn being smuggled from his house in a container for musical instruments, others speculate the involvement of a diplomatic aide or another country to come to Ghosn's rescue.&nbsp;

What we do know is that a private jet was involved in Ghosn's escape to Lebanon and a French passport - most likely a fake one considering all his passports were already in possession of the lawyers.&nbsp;

Ghosn's lawyer Hironaka says he must have had fled with the help of a "large organization".&nbsp;

Hironaka on Tuesday described his escape as an "unexpected surprise".&nbsp;Hironaka last met Ghosn on December 25 and said he knew nothing about his escape, adding that Ghosn's three passports were in possession of the lawyers.

Lebanese foreign ministry source stated that Ghosn's entry into Lebanon was legal and on a French passport, using his Lebanese ID with normal security procedures.&nbsp;

A Reuters report describes Ghosn's place where he lived for the last seven months. "Nestled in a leafy enclave of Tokyo", the place is situated in an area where "most people pay little attention to Westerners or luxury cars".

There always seemed to be a car at the end of the street near Ghosn's house, said one Western expat who had lived in the area for nine months.

Ghosn arrived in Beirut on a private jet from Istanbul on December 30. In a statement, Ghosn said he fled to Lebanon and that he will no longer be a hostage by a "rigged Japanese justice system". He said he can now communicate with the media freely.&nbsp;

"I have not fled justice - I have escaped injustice and political persecution. I can now finally communicate freely with the media, and look forward to starting next week," Ghosn said.&nbsp;

What is interesting is the fact that Ghosn is unlikely to be forced to return to Japan in the absence of an extradition treaty between Lebanon and Japan.

The former auto executive was initially arrested in Tokyo in November 2018. He faces four charges which includes hiding income and enriching himself through payments to Middle East dealerships. Ghosn denies all charges.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Ousted Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn has stunned the world with his surprise escape to Lebanon. Ghosn, while awaiting trial, eluded media and authorities to escape to Lebanon when, as per his lawyer Junichiro Hironaka, all three of his passports were in possession of the lawyers.

Ousted Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn has stunned the world with his surprise escape to Lebanon. Ghosn, while awaiting trial, eluded media and authorities to escape to Lebanon when, as per his lawyer Junichiro Hironaka, all three of his passports were in possession of the lawyers. In such a situation, the mystery around Ghosn's escape raises many questions and a flurry of speculations. Media reports across the globe are busy speculating possible ways which Ghosn could have taken to flee Japan and outwit strict Japanese surveillance. While some outlandish theories in Lebanese media suggest Ghosn being smuggled from his house in a container for musical instruments, others speculate the involvement of a diplomatic aide or another country to come to Ghosn's rescue. What we do know is that a private jet was involved in Ghosn's escape to Lebanon and a French passport - most likely a fake one considering all his passports were already in possession of the lawyers. Ghosn's lawyer Hironaka says he must have had fled with the help of a "large organization". Hironaka on Tuesday described his escape as an "unexpected surprise". Hironaka last met Ghosn on December 25 and said he knew nothing about his escape, adding that Ghosn's three passports were in possession of the lawyers. Lebanese foreign ministry source stated that Ghosn's entry into Lebanon was legal and on a French passport, using his Lebanese ID with normal security procedures. A Reuters report describes Ghosn's place where he lived for the last seven months. "Nestled in a leafy enclave of Tokyo", the place is situated in an area where "most people pay little attention to Westerners or luxury cars". There always seemed to be a car at the end of the street near Ghosn's house, said one Western expat who had lived in the area for nine months. Ghosn arrived in Beirut on a private jet from Istanbul on December 30. In a statement, Ghosn said he fled to Lebanon and that he will no longer be a hostage by a "rigged Japanese justice system". He said he can now communicate with the media freely. "I have not fled justice - I have escaped injustice and political persecution. I can now finally communicate freely with the media, and look forward to starting next week," Ghosn said. What is interesting is the fact that Ghosn is unlikely to be forced to return to Japan in the absence of an extradition treaty between Lebanon and Japan. The former auto executive was initially arrested in Tokyo in November 2018. He faces four charges which includes hiding income and enriching himself through payments to Middle East dealerships. Ghosn denies all charges. (With inputs from agencies)

'Unexpected surprise': How did Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn escape to Lebanon? 

Ousted Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn has said that he <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ousted-nissan-chief-carlos-ghosn-flies-to-lebanon-271146">fled to Lebanon</a> to escape the 'injustice' in Japan. Ghosn is currently on bail and his surprising escape to Lebanon has raised many questions. &nbsp;

Ghosn's lawyer Junichiro Hironaka on Tuesday described his escape as an "unexpected surprise".&nbsp;

Hironaka last met Ghosn on December 25 and said he knew nothing about his escape, adding that Ghosn's three passports were in possession of the lawyers.&nbsp;

"I will let the court know we are baffled regarding this situation. I will provide the court with any information we receive," he said as reported by news agency Reuters.

It remains a mystery how Ghosn, who holds French, Brazilian and Lebanese passports, was able to flee to Lebanon from Japan, even&nbsp;after he was under strict surveillance by Japanese authorities while out on bail and had surrendered his passports.&nbsp;

Ghosn arrived in Beirut on a private jet from Istanbul on December 30, Reuters reported.&nbsp;

After reaching Lebanon, Ghosn released a statement saying that he will no longer be a hostage by a "rigged Japanese justice system" and can now communicate with the media freely, Reuters reported.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Lebanese as well as the Japanese authorities claim having no information on Ghosn's escape.&nbsp;

Lebanese foreign ministry source stated that Ghosn's entry into Lebanon was legal and on a French passport, using his Lebanese ID with normal security procedures.&nbsp;

Japanese state media reported saying that a person resembling Ghosn had entered Beirut international airport but under a different name.&nbsp;

Japanese media on Wednesday slammed Ghosn's escape and called it a "cowardly" act, one that mocks Japan's justice system, news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Ousted Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn has said that he fled to Lebanon to escape the 'injustice' in Japan. Ghosn is currently on bail and his surprising escape to Lebanon has raised many questions.

Ousted Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn has said that he fled to Lebanon to escape the 'injustice' in Japan. Ghosn is currently on bail and his surprising escape to Lebanon has raised many questions. Ghosn's lawyer Junichiro Hironaka on Tuesday described his escape as an "unexpected surprise". Hironaka last met Ghosn on December 25 and said he knew nothing about his escape, adding that Ghosn's three passports were in possession of the lawyers. "I will let the court know we are baffled regarding this situation. I will provide the court with any information we receive," he said as reported by news agency Reuters. It remains a mystery how Ghosn, who holds French, Brazilian and Lebanese passports, was able to flee to Lebanon from Japan, even after he was under strict surveillance by Japanese authorities while out on bail and had surrendered his passports. Ghosn arrived in Beirut on a private jet from Istanbul on December 30, Reuters reported. After reaching Lebanon, Ghosn released a statement saying that he will no longer be a hostage by a "rigged Japanese justice system" and can now communicate with the media freely, Reuters reported. Meanwhile, the Lebanese as well as the Japanese authorities claim having no information on Ghosn's escape. Lebanese foreign ministry source stated that Ghosn's entry into Lebanon was legal and on a French passport, using his Lebanese ID with normal security procedures. Japanese state media reported saying that a person resembling Ghosn had entered Beirut international airport but under a different name. Japanese media on Wednesday slammed Ghosn's escape and called it a "cowardly" act, one that mocks Japan's justice system, news agency AFP reported. (With inputs from agencies)

'Unexpected surprise': Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn flees to Lebanon, Japan calls it 'cowardly' act  

Ousted Nissan chief Carlos Ghosn confirmed on Tuesday that he is in Lebanon and would now no longer be held hostage by a a rigged "Japanese justice system".&nbsp;

"I am now in Lebanon and will no longer be held hostage by a rigged Japanese justice system where guilt is presumed, discrimination is rampant, and basic human rights are denied," Ghosn said in a statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/one-year-after-arrest-ghosn-seeks-to-throw-out-case-against-him-262666">One year after arrest, Ghosn seeks to throw out case against him</a>

Former Nissan chief was seen in the Lebanese capital Beirut on Monday, raising questions about how one of the world's most prominent businessmen left Japan before his trial.&nbsp;

It was reported that Ghosn holds French, Brazilian and Lebanese passports.&nbsp;

A Lebanese security source said that Ghosn arrived in Beirut Monday, adding: "It's unclear how he left Japan."

Another source said that Ghosn will come up with a statement soon.&nbsp;

The former Nissan president is facing a trial in Japan for multiple charges of financial misconduct and is currently on bail.&nbsp;

Ghosn and his lawyers have repeatedly raised concerns of the impossibility of a fair trial in Japan and have called for the rejection of the case, citing mis-steps by the prosecutors' office.&nbsp;

"Carlos Ghosn is not looking to flee his responsibilities, but he's fleeing the injustice of the Japanese system," a source closely involved with the case said.&nbsp;

As per reports from Lebanese media, Ghosn took a private plane from Turkey to reach Lebanon, where his parents were born and where he spent most of his childhood after arriving there as a toddler.&nbsp;

Ghosn's lawyers declined to comment on Ghosn's arrival to Beirut.&nbsp;

Japan's justice ministry said that the country does not have an extradition agreement with Lebanon, which means Ghosn could not be forced to return to Tokyo to face trial.

(with inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Ousted Nissan chief Carlos Ghosn confirmed on Tuesday that he is in Lebanon and would now no longer be held hostage by a a rigged "Japanese justice system". "I am now in Lebanon and will no longer be held hostage by a rigged Japanese justice system where guilt is presumed, discrimination is rampant, and basic human rights are denied," Ghosn said in a statement.

Ousted Nissan chief Carlos Ghosn confirmed on Tuesday that he is in Lebanon and would now no longer be held hostage by a a rigged "Japanese justice system". "I am now in Lebanon and will no longer be held hostage by a rigged Japanese justice system where guilt is presumed, discrimination is rampant, and basic human rights are denied," Ghosn said in a statement. Also read: One year after arrest, Ghosn seeks to throw out case against him Former Nissan chief was seen in the Lebanese capital Beirut on Monday, raising questions about how one of the world's most prominent businessmen left Japan before his trial. It was reported that Ghosn holds French, Brazilian and Lebanese passports. A Lebanese security source said that Ghosn arrived in Beirut Monday, adding: "It's unclear how he left Japan." Another source said that Ghosn will come up with a statement soon. The former Nissan president is facing a trial in Japan for multiple charges of financial misconduct and is currently on bail. Ghosn and his lawyers have repeatedly raised concerns of the impossibility of a fair trial in Japan and have called for the rejection of the case, citing mis-steps by the prosecutors' office. "Carlos Ghosn is not looking to flee his responsibilities, but he's fleeing the injustice of the Japanese system," a source closely involved with the case said. As per reports from Lebanese media, Ghosn took a private plane from Turkey to reach Lebanon, where his parents were born and where he spent most of his childhood after arriving there as a toddler. Ghosn's lawyers declined to comment on Ghosn's arrival to Beirut. Japan's justice ministry said that the country does not have an extradition agreement with Lebanon, which means Ghosn could not be forced to return to Tokyo to face trial. (with inputs from agencies)

Ousted Nissan chief Carlos Ghosn confirms he is in Lebanon

Lebanon's prime minister-designate launched consultations Saturday to form a desperately-needed government for a protest-hit country facing economic collapse amid political rifts over the cabinet's line-up.

Debt-burdened Lebanon has been without a fully functioning government since former prime minister Saad Hariri resigned on October 29 in the face of nationwide protests.

Demonstrators are demanding an overhaul of the political establishment which they deem corrupt and inept, insisting on a government of independents and experts with no ties to the country's sectarian parties.

Hassan Diab, a 60-year-old engineering professor, was designated prime minister on Thursday with backing from the country's Iran-aligned Shiite Hezbollah movement and its allies.

But Hariri's Sunni bloc did not endorse his nomination, along with other key Christian and Druze Muslim parties and have said they will not take part in Diab's government.&nbsp;

Diab, considered a technocrat, is hoping to set up the new cabinet within four to six weeks and has said he wanted to choose experts to join the line-up, calling on demonstrators to give him a "chance" to carry out the task.

The challenges he must overcome became clear however from the onset of Saturday's talks with various officials and lawmakers.

Parliament speaker Nabih Berri said he "insists on securing representation for all parliamentary groups," in the next government -- a position shared by his Shiite Amal party and Hezbollah.

Samir al-Jisr, a deputy from Hariri's Future Movement, urged Diab to form a government "of independent experts not affiliated with established political parties," to rescue Lebanon from the brink of collapse.&nbsp;

"Considering that this government, just like Diab's nomination, will be supported by only one political stripe, then its formation should take less than" a month or six weeks, he said after meeting the premier-designate.

He was referring to allies Hezbollah, Amal and the Free Patriotic Movement founded by Christian President Michel Aoun who chose Diab to form a cabinet.

Financial collapse

Such backing has sparked an uproar, with Sunni supporters of Hariri blocking roads and scuffling with security forces in Beirut and other cities for the past two consecutive nights to voice their opposition for Diab.

Some roads remained blocked on Saturday in Sunni-majority second city Tripoli and in the northern Akkar region.

Hezbollah sought to appease the anger of the protesters on Saturday, insisting that the next government will not be lopsided.

"No one should think the government will be one of confrontation or one endorsed by only one political stripe," said Hezbollah MP Mohammad Raad after meeting Diab.

The new government, he said, will seek to "revitalise" the economy that has taken a beating since the unprecedented protests began on October 17.

Since then, tensions have been heightened by the looming bankruptcy of the debt-burdened Lebanese state.

A dollar-liquidity crisis has pushed banks to impose informal capital controls on dollar deposits and the Lebanese pound, officially pegged to the US dollar, has lost around 30 percent of its value on the black market.

The faltering economy has pushed several companies to close, while surviving businesses try to stay open by paying half-salaries and laying off employees.

A recession of more than 0.2 percent is expected for this year, the World Bank says.

The international community, donors, and financial organisations have warned that debt-saddled Lebanon could ill afford any delay in getting a new government.

The United States, France and other allies of Lebanon have warned they would withhold financial support until a government that can demonstrate willingness to reform can be formed.&nbsp;

Multi-confessional Lebanon is ruled by a complex political system that seeks to maintain a fragile equilibrium between political parties representing the country's major confessional sects.&nbsp;

It usually takes months to form a government as political groups haggle over the allocation of cabinet seats and the distribution of ministerial portfolios.

Lebanon's prime minister-designate launched consultations Saturday to form a desperately-needed government for a protest-hit country facing economic collapse amid political rifts over the cabinet's line-up.

Lebanon's prime minister-designate launched consultations Saturday to form a desperately-needed government for a protest-hit country facing economic collapse amid political rifts over the cabinet's line-up. Debt-burdened Lebanon has been without a fully functioning government since former prime minister Saad Hariri resigned on October 29 in the face of nationwide protests. Demonstrators are demanding an overhaul of the political establishment which they deem corrupt and inept, insisting on a government of independents and experts with no ties to the country's sectarian parties. Hassan Diab, a 60-year-old engineering professor, was designated prime minister on Thursday with backing from the country's Iran-aligned Shiite Hezbollah movement and its allies. But Hariri's Sunni bloc did not endorse his nomination, along with other key Christian and Druze Muslim parties and have said they will not take part in Diab's government. Diab, considered a technocrat, is hoping to set up the new cabinet within four to six weeks and has said he wanted to choose experts to join the line-up, calling on demonstrators to give him a "chance" to carry out the task. The challenges he must overcome became clear however from the onset of Saturday's talks with various officials and lawmakers. Parliament speaker Nabih Berri said he "insists on securing representation for all parliamentary groups," in the next government -- a position shared by his Shiite Amal party and Hezbollah. Samir al-Jisr, a deputy from Hariri's Future Movement, urged Diab to form a government "of independent experts not affiliated with established political parties," to rescue Lebanon from the brink of collapse. "Considering that this government, just like Diab's nomination, will be supported by only one political stripe, then its formation should take less than" a month or six weeks, he said after meeting the premier-designate. He was referring to allies Hezbollah, Amal and the Free Patriotic Movement founded by Christian President Michel Aoun who chose Diab to form a cabinet. Financial collapse Such backing has sparked an uproar, with Sunni supporters of Hariri blocking roads and scuffling with security forces in Beirut and other cities for the past two consecutive nights to voice their opposition for Diab. Some roads remained blocked on Saturday in Sunni-majority second city Tripoli and in the northern Akkar region. Hezbollah sought to appease the anger of the protesters on Saturday, insisting that the next government will not be lopsided. "No one should think the government will be one of confrontation or one endorsed by only one political stripe," said Hezbollah MP Mohammad Raad after meeting Diab. The new government, he said, will seek to "revitalise" the economy that has taken a beating since the unprecedented protests began on October 17. Since then, tensions have been heightened by the looming bankruptcy of the debt-burdened Lebanese state. A dollar-liquidity crisis has pushed banks to impose informal capital controls on dollar deposits and the Lebanese pound, officially pegged to the US dollar, has lost around 30 percent of its value on the black market. The faltering economy has pushed several companies to close, while surviving businesses try to stay open by paying half-salaries and laying off employees. A recession of more than 0.2 percent is expected for this year, the World Bank says. The international community, donors, and financial organisations have warned that debt-saddled Lebanon could ill afford any delay in getting a new government. The United States, France and other allies of Lebanon have warned they would withhold financial support until a government that can demonstrate willingness to reform can be formed. Multi-confessional Lebanon is ruled by a complex political system that seeks to maintain a fragile equilibrium between political parties representing the country's major confessional sects. It usually takes months to form a government as political groups haggle over the allocation of cabinet seats and the distribution of ministerial portfolios.

Lebanon PM-designate begins tough talks to form government

Protesters took to the streets of Lebanon to demonstrate against the newly named Prime Minister Hassan Diab, who they accuse of being part of the same corrupt political system against which they have been rallying for two months.

Crowds lit tyres on fire and overturned garbage bins in capital Beirut. Some people also demonstrated outside the parliament building.

Demonstrators refused to accept the Hezbollah backed Lebanese academic and former minister Daib as their Prime Minister, saying that he represented the elite and not the masses.

While Diab gathered the political backing of Hezbollah-allied parliamentary blocs, he failed to gather the support of parties from his Sunni community.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Diab said he would quickly form a government to pull the country out of its worst economic crisis since the civil war which ended in 1990.

The not so famously known 60-year-old engineering professor at the American University of Beirut (AUB) is set to replace the outgoing Prime Minister Saad Hariri who was forced to resign on October 29th.

Protesters took to the streets of Lebanon to demonstrate against the newly named Prime Minister Hassan Diab, who they accuse of being part of the same corrupt political system against which they have been rallying for two months.

Protesters took to the streets of Lebanon to demonstrate against the newly named Prime Minister Hassan Diab, who they accuse of being part of the same corrupt political system against which they have been rallying for two months. Crowds lit tyres on fire and overturned garbage bins in capital Beirut. Some people also demonstrated outside the parliament building. Demonstrators refused to accept the Hezbollah backed Lebanese academic and former minister Daib as their Prime Minister, saying that he represented the elite and not the masses. While Diab gathered the political backing of Hezbollah-allied parliamentary blocs, he failed to gather the support of parties from his Sunni community. Meanwhile, Diab said he would quickly form a government to pull the country out of its worst economic crisis since the civil war which ended in 1990. The not so famously known 60-year-old engineering professor at the American University of Beirut (AUB) is set to replace the outgoing Prime Minister Saad Hariri who was forced to resign on October 29th.

Lebanon back on streets to protest against newly named Prime Minister Hassan Diab

Lebanon’s head of state has named Hassan Diab as the new prime minister in an effort to break a political deadlock that has paralysed the country and left it unable to deal with a dire financial crisis that threatens to sink its economy within weeks. However, the country is protesting against the new PM whom they believe is the part of the same corrupt system. #LebanonProtest #HassanDiab

Lebanon protest against new PM Hassan Diab, believe PM part of corrupt life

Protesters took to the streets of Lebanon on Thursday to demonstrate against the Hezbollah-backed newly named prime minister Hassan Diab. #Lebanon #LebanonPM #Hezbollah #Hassan Diab

Fires on the streets of Lebanon as new PM appointed

Lebanon's new prime minister-designate <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-back-on-streets-to-protest-against-newly-named-prime-minister-hassan-diab-269294">Hassan Diab</a> said in an interview with Deutsche Welle he will work on forming a government within six weeks to help pull the country out of a deepening economic and political crisis.

Diab, an academic and former education minister, was designated on Thursday as the country's next prime minister with the support of Iran-backed Hezbollah and its allies.

"Previous governments in the last decade took a year to form and I seek to form a government in the next four weeks or a period that does not exceed six weeks," Diab said.

The designation set the stage for a cabinet that excludes allies of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sanctions-two-iranian-judges-for-overseeing-iranian-regimes-miscarriage-of-justice-269258">United States</a> and Sunni Gulf Arab countries while underlining the influence of Iran's friends in&nbsp;Lebanon. The move would complicate efforts to secure Western financial aid, analysts say.

Senior US&nbsp;State Department official David Hale, who arrived on Friday to underline Washington's support for&nbsp;Lebanon's stability, urged the country's bickering political leaders to implement speedy economic reforms.

"I am here to encourage Lebanese political leaders to commit and undertake meaningful, sustained reforms that can lead to a stable, prosperous, secure&nbsp;Lebanon," Under-Secretary David Hale said after meeting President Michel Aoun at&nbsp;Lebanon's Baabda palace.

"It's time to put aside partisan interests and act in the national interest, advancing reforms and form a government committed to undertaking these reforms and capable of doing so," Hale added.

Lebanon, in its worst economic crisis since the 1975-90 civil war, has been seeking a new government since Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri resigned on October&nbsp;29 in response to protests against the ruling elite.

Diab, who failed to get the support of Hariri under a sectarian political system that leaves the post of the premier to a Sunni Muslim, dismissed accusations that the government would be under the thumb of Hezbollah. Hariri is the country's main Sunni politician.

"This matter is silly because the new government will not be a government of a political grouping chosen from here or there," Diab added.

Lebanon's new prime minister-designate Hassan Diab said in an interview with Deutsche Welle he will work on forming a government within six weeks to help pull the country out of a deepening economic and political crisis.

Lebanon's new prime minister-designate Hassan Diab said in an interview with Deutsche Welle he will work on forming a government within six weeks to help pull the country out of a deepening economic and political crisis. Diab, an academic and former education minister, was designated on Thursday as the country's next prime minister with the support of Iran-backed Hezbollah and its allies. "Previous governments in the last decade took a year to form and I seek to form a government in the next four weeks or a period that does not exceed six weeks," Diab said. The designation set the stage for a cabinet that excludes allies of the United States and Sunni Gulf Arab countries while underlining the influence of Iran's friends in Lebanon. The move would complicate efforts to secure Western financial aid, analysts say. Senior US State Department official David Hale, who arrived on Friday to underline Washington's support for Lebanon's stability, urged the country's bickering political leaders to implement speedy economic reforms. "I am here to encourage Lebanese political leaders to commit and undertake meaningful, sustained reforms that can lead to a stable, prosperous, secure Lebanon," Under-Secretary David Hale said after meeting President Michel Aoun at Lebanon's Baabda palace. "It's time to put aside partisan interests and act in the national interest, advancing reforms and form a government committed to undertaking these reforms and capable of doing so," Hale added. Lebanon, in its worst economic crisis since the 1975-90 civil war, has been seeking a new government since Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri resigned on October 29 in response to protests against the ruling elite. Diab, who failed to get the support of Hariri under a sectarian political system that leaves the post of the premier to a Sunni Muslim, dismissed accusations that the government would be under the thumb of Hezbollah. Hariri is the country's main Sunni politician. "This matter is silly because the new government will not be a government of a political grouping chosen from here or there," Diab added.

Lebanon's new PM aims to form government within six weeks: Report

Wreckage of burnt cars, damaged phone booths and shattered tents was all that was left in the streets of Beirut and the southern Lebanese city of Sidon Tuesday (December 17), after clashes raged overnight between the army and Shi'ite groups.

Overnight clashes in Sidon leave burnt cars, shattered tents

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