Paris: Interior and Municipalities Minister Ahmad Al-Hajjar met with his French counterpart, Laurent Nu±ez, at the French Interior Ministry in Paris, attended by Lebanese Ambassador Rabih Shaer. The meeting aimed at activating mechanisms for joint cooperation between Lebanon and France.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Al-Hajjar expressed gratitude to France for its steadfast support to Lebanon, highlighting France's significant role in the 'Mechanism' committee, which focuses on stabilizing southern Lebanon. He emphasized the need for a full Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory and called for an end to ongoing Israeli aggressions.
The discussions centered on enhancing bilateral relations in areas such as security, counterterrorism, organized crime, and drug trafficking. The ministers also explored cooperation in border control and addressing illegal immigration. They reiterated the strong historical ties between the two nations and the need to bolster their strategic partnership through active cooperation.
The talks included support for Lebanese security institutions, notably the Internal Security Forces. Minister Al-Hajjar stressed that such support is crucial for strengthening the capabilities of Lebanon's security forces to maintain stability and security in the region.
Additionally, Al-Hajjar and Nu±ez discussed the status of the Lebanese community in France. Al-Hajjar lauded the community's positive impact in French society and hoped for continued collaboration to assist Lebanese residents in France, especially students.