Baabda: President of the Republic, Joseph Aoun, met with Dutch Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans and UK Minister for the Middle East and North Africa, Hamish Falconer, at Baabda Palace to discuss Lebanon's stability and security challenges.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, President Aoun expressed gratitude for the Netherlands' support to the Lebanese Army and emphasized the importance of maintaining stability in Lebanon for Europe's interest. He reiterated Lebanon's compliance with the November 2024 agreement, highlighting ongoing Israeli violations, especially in the South and Bekaa regions. Aoun urged European nations to pressure Israel to cease its aggression and withdraw from occupied Lebanese territories.
Minister Brekelmans reassured the Netherlands' commitment to supporting Lebanon, emphasizing the importance of continued reforms and investment. He invited President Aoun to visit the Netherlands to further strengthen bilateral ties.
In discussions with Hamish Falconer, the focus was on Lebanon's security in the South. Falconer visited the region to inspect Lebanese Army and UNIFIL sites, praising their coordination. Aoun thanked the UK for its support in building observation towers along Lebanon's borders and stressed the need for a monitoring committee to document developments and maintain a weapons-free southern region. He also highlighted the ongoing challenges posed by Israel's actions and the necessity for negotiations to end the occupation.
Additionally, President Aoun met with former U.S. Ambassador David Hale to discuss regional dynamics, and MP Melhem Riachi to emphasize the importance of timely parliamentary elections and the state's arms-exclusive plan. International Minifootball Federation President Mohammed Al-Dosari also presented plans for a major tournament in Lebanon, which Aoun welcomed, recognizing the positive impact of sports on youth.