Beirut: A joint Lebanese-Palestinian statement was issued following talks between the President of the Republic, General Joseph Aoun, and the Palestinian President, Mahmoud Abbas, at Baabda Palace. The statement highlighted the discussions on bilateral relations and the latest regional and international developments.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the statement emphasizes the strong fraternal relations between the Lebanese and Palestinian peoples, with a shared commitment to enhancing cooperation and coordination at various levels. Both leaders reaffirmed the need to achieve a just and lasting peace in the region, enabling the Palestinian people to establish an independent state as per international legitimacy resolutions, and ensuring legitimate rights for all countries and peoples in the region.
The statement condemned the ongoing Israeli aggression on the Gaza Strip, which has led to substantial human losses and a humanitarian crisis, urging the international community to take immediate action to halt the aggression and provide protection for Palestinian civilians. Additionally, both sides stressed the importance of reinforcing the role of the United Nations in ensuring respect for international law and implementing resolutions.
Regarding the situation in Lebanon, the leaders condemned the repeated Israeli aggressions and called on the international community, particularly the United States and France, to pressure Israel to implement the agreement reached in November 2024. This involves the cessation of hostilities, withdrawal from occupied hills, and the return of Lebanese prisoners, enabling the Lebanese Army to deploy to internationally recognized borders in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 1701.
Concerning Palestinian refugees in Lebanon, both parties reaffirmed their commitment to a just solution, enabling refugees to return to their homeland in line with UN Resolution 194, rejecting resettlement and displacement plans. They emphasized continued support for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), while working to increase its financial resources.
The formation of a joint Lebanese-Palestinian committee was agreed upon to follow up on the situation in Palestinian camps in Lebanon and improve living conditions, respecting Lebanese sovereignty and laws. Both sides committed to ensuring dignified living conditions for Palestinian refugees without affecting their right of return or national identity.
In terms of security and stability, both leaders affirmed the principle of exclusive possession of weapons by the Lebanese state and emphasized respecting Lebanon's sovereignty and territorial integrity. They agreed to strengthen coordination between Lebanese and Palestinian authorities to ensure stability in and around Palestinian camps, with the Palestinian side committing not to use Lebanese territory for military operations and respecting Lebanon's policy of non-interference in regional conflicts.
The statement concluded with President Abbas expressing gratitude to President Aoun for the hospitality and reaffirming the State of Palestine's commitment to supporting Lebanon's security, stability, and sovereignty.