Beirut: President of the Republic, General Joseph Aoun, met with Charles Fries, Deputy Secretary-General for Peace, Security, and Defence of the European External Action Service (EEAS), at Baabda Palace. During the meeting, President Aoun expressed Lebanon's openness to any support from the European Union aimed at strengthening the Lebanese army and security forces to ensure security and stability across the country.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the meeting was attended by the EU Ambassador to Lebanon, Sandra De Waele. President Aoun conveyed his gratitude for the European Union's assistance to Lebanon in different sectors. He also urged friendly nations, particularly those within the European Union, to exert pressure on Israel to withdraw from occupied areas, cease daily attacks, and return Lebanese prisoners. This, he emphasized, is crucial for Lebanon's stability and the successful implementation of the army's plan to centralize weapons under state authority.
Addressing financial and economic reforms, President Aoun assured that the Lebanese government is committed to implementing necessary changes, which are not just external demands but also domestic ones. He welcomed European collaboration in various fields and requested the EU envoy to enhance aid to Lebanese sectors and participate in monitoring the parliamentary elections slated for the coming May.
The meeting also touched upon Lebanese-Syrian relations, which President Aoun described as improving, with ongoing coordination between the two countries to tackle mutual concerns, particularly regarding displaced Syrians.
Fries reaffirmed the European Union's willingness to continue its support for Lebanon across various domains, highlighting European countries' satisfaction with their cooperation with Lebanon.