The Minister of National Defense, Major General Michel Mansi, met in Paris with the French Minister of Armies and Veterans, Catherine Vautrin, as part of his official visit to France, where they discussed ways to enhance military cooperation between Lebanon and France, and the continuation of French support for the Lebanese army in light of the current circumstances and challenges.
At the beginning of the meeting, Major General Mansi thanked his French counterpart for the invitation, stressing Lebanon’s deep appreciation for French President Emmanuel Macron and the French government’s constant standing by the Lebanese state and people, and for their continued efforts to reach a political solution to the ongoing war in Lebanon.
He also thanked France for the continuous support it provides to the Lebanese state and the military institution at various levels, whether through military and logistical aid or humanitarian and diplomatic initiatives aimed at supporting Lebanon during the crises it faces, in a way that contributes to strengthening its capabilities and enabling it to carry out its national missions, extend state authority over the entire Lebanese territory, and contribute to the implementation of Resolution 1701.
The discussion addressed the security situation in Lebanon and the repercussions of continued Israeli military operations, including human losses and damage to infrastructure. Major General Mansi stressed the need to intensify international efforts to reach a comprehensive and permanent cessation of hostilities and the withdrawal of Israeli forces, allowing the return of the displaced and reconstruction.
The two sides touched on the future of UNIFIL in light of the ongoing discussions about the period after the end of its current mandate, with Minister Mansi noting the pivotal role of France and his hope for its continued effective contribution.
The repercussions of the war that was raging in Iran on the region were also discussed, with the hope that the agreement signed between the United States and Iran would take into account the interests of all parties concerned, including the interests of the Lebanese state and the Lebanese people.
In conclusion, the Minister of National Defense invited his French counterpart to visit Lebanon, looking forward to continuing cooperation between the two countries to support stability in Lebanon and the region.
