Beirut: During a meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, President Joseph Aoun emphasized the importance of Lebanon aligning its position with Washington regarding the trilateral framework agreement's implementation, aiming to achieve the initial Israeli withdrawal from the pilot area.
According to National news agency - Lebanon, President Aoun also highlighted the need for increased US support for the Lebanese Army and security institutions. He urged enhanced American involvement in Lebanon's economic and investment sectors, particularly focusing on energy, telecommunications, and transportation.
In response, State Secretary Rubio affirmed Washington's support for President Aoun's initiatives to restore Lebanese sovereignty across its territory. Rubio backed the implementation of the trilateral framework agreement and emphasized the revival of Lebanon's economic prosperity and the state's authority throughout the country.
Rubio stated that Lebanon's sovereignty could only be achieved through decisions made by Lebanese constitutional institutions, independent of other negotiating tracks. He underscored the importance of Lebanon's regional role, which hinges on economic prosperity and full state sovereignty.
Secretary Rubio committed to advancing President Aoun's proposals into actionable steps for economic cooperation in key sectors like energy, telecommunications, transportation, and reconstruction through implementation conferences.
The discussions also touched on Lebanese-Syrian relations, with President Aoun affirming ongoing coordination between the countries based on mutual respect for sovereignty and non-interference in internal affairs.
Concluding the meeting, President Aoun signed the US State Department's guest book, describing the visit as significant. He praised Secretary Rubio's efforts in facilitating the trilateral framework agreement, expressing confidence in Rubio's dedication to achieving their goals and extending gratitude on behalf of the Lebanese people.