Aoun: UNIFIL, British Support Crucial for Lebanon
Lebanon Seeks Extended UNIFIL Presence, Bolsters Army Capabilities
Beirut – President Joseph Aoun reaffirmed Lebanon’s commitment to the presence of international forces operating in the south, specifically UNIFIL, emphasizing its importance to Britain’s support for extending the Security Council mandate until the full implementation of Resolution 1701 and the complete deployment of the Lebanese army to internationally recognized borders.
During a meeting with the British ambassador to Beirut,President Aoun highlighted UNIFIL’s important role in maintaining security,providing humanitarian aid,and contributing to social stability in the south,in coordination with the Lebanese army.
The British ambassador offered condolences for the six military personnel who died in the explosion in the Valley of zamqin in the Tire district and pledged continued british support for the lebanese army, including the establishment of training centers in Al-zahrani and the planned construction of a military center near Al-Adisa-Kafrkla.
Discussions also covered the current situation in the south, UNIFIL’s role, and observations made by U.S. envoy Ambassador Thomas Barak during his recent visit to Lebanon, with Lebanese officials seeking ways to facilitate the implementation of the American proposal.The situation in Syria was also addressed.
President Aoun also met with Representative Marwan Hamada, discussing recent political developments, notably Barak’s visit. Hamada expressed his renewed faith in the Baabda Palace as a symbol of national unity, stating, “This palace has returned to the Lebanese, it is the president’s palace, of course, but the palace of all of Lebanon.” He acknowledged the challenges facing President Aoun in confronting perceived expansionist ambitions, stating the need to stand against any project that threatens Lebanon’s sovereignty and the stability of the region.
Hamada emphasized the importance of a unified national army, calling for support from all sects, particularly the Shiite community.He dismissed accusations leveled against the President, government, Patriarch, and other leaders as baseless.
President Aoun also received ambassadors Walid Haider (belgium and the European Union), Tariq Munimneh (United Arab Emirates), and Nisreen Bou Karam (Venezuela), thanking them for their dedication to promoting Lebanon’s interests on the international stage and wishing them success in their respective roles.