Villepreux: Member of the Strong Republic parliamentary bloc, MP Ghada Ayoub, participated in a ceremony held in Villepreux, located in the French Yvelines Province, to sign a partnership agreement between the French town and the southern Lebanese town of Azour in Jezzine. The event was attended by notable figures including French Foreign Minister Jean-No«l Barrot and several local and international dignitaries.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the ceremony was a significant occasion reflecting the ongoing cooperation and strengthening of historical relations between France and Lebanon. Ayoub highlighted the importance of the agreement, emphasizing the necessity of strong bilateral relations, especially in the context of Lebanon's position as a cultural bridge between East and West. She underlined the shared values of freedom and liberty that unite the two countries, as well as Lebanon's role as a model of pluralism in a tumultuous region.
French Foreign Minister Barrot expressed his pleasure in attending the ceremony, noting the vital role of local authorities in fostering international cooperation. He spoke of the challenges faced by Lebanon, including the aftermath of the Beirut port explosion and regional conflicts, and highlighted France's continued support for Lebanon through humanitarian aid and international cooperation efforts. Additionally, Barrot praised the recent election of President Joseph Aoun and the formation of a new government that aims to implement crucial reforms for Lebanon's recovery.
The ceremony also featured cultural exchanges, including a presentation of a friendship stamp, a tasting of Lebanese food, and a concert by Christian Najjar. These activities celebrated the longstanding friendship between the two nations and underscored the mutual commitment to supporting Lebanon's revival and maintaining strong bilateral ties.