Baabda:President Joseph Aoun reaffirmed Lebanon's commitment to negotiations with Israel as a means to end ongoing hostilities, facilitate Israeli withdrawal, and enable displaced residents to return. Speaking at Baabda Palace with the Mont La Salle Alumni Association delegation led by Georges Khoury, Aoun emphasized that continued warfare would not bring about the desired outcomes for Lebanon.
According to National news agency - Lebanon, Aoun acknowledged that while the agreement reached is not perfect, it has helped limit the expansion of Israeli attacks, despite ongoing strikes in South Lebanon. He stated that Lebanon's ultimate goals include ending hostilities, securing Israeli withdrawal, releasing prisoners, and advancing reconstruction efforts.
Aoun highlighted that the negotiations have drawn greater U.S. attention to Lebanon, though significant challenges persist. He noted that progress would be incremental, and his constitutional duties necessitate making tough decisions despite political opposition.
On security matters, Aoun distinguished between the hostilities in South Lebanon and the overall domestic security, describing Lebanon as a relatively safe destination that continues to attract international visitors. In terms of the economy, he mentioned a 4% growth last year and anticipated 6% growth this year before the war disrupted recovery. He attributed economic pressures to regional conflicts and rising oil prices, among other factors.
Aoun reaffirmed his dedication to institutional reform, acknowledging the longstanding issues of corruption and mismanagement. He also discussed Lebanon's involvement in the IMEC Ports Club, the lifting of U.S. aviation restrictions, and progress at René Mouawad Airport.
In education and national development, Aoun stressed the importance of investing in human capital, urging the alumni to preserve Lebanon's diversity and national unity. Khoury expressed the association's support for Aoun and offered expert assistance for national recovery.
In separate discussions, Aoun talked about domestic and regional developments with former minister Nohad Machnouk and received a briefing from Jal El Dib-Bqennaya Mayor Georges Zard Abou Jaoudeh on a municipal digital transformation program.
