Beirut: President of the Republic, General Joseph Aoun, emphasized the critical role of the Lebanese army in maintaining national sovereignty during a joint press conference with Bulgarian President Rumen Radev at the Bulgarian Presidential Palace. The conference followed bilateral discussions on the regional situation post-Gaza agreement.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, President Aoun stated, "Our army's mission is crucial in these circumstances, because it alone, and I reiterate, alone, without any partner, neither from outside the state nor from outside Lebanon, must extend the authority of our state over all of its territories and borders." He stressed the importance of negotiations for achieving Lebanon's national goals and highlighted past successful negotiations, including the maritime demarcation with Israel and the cessation of attacks.
President Aoun expressed support for the Gaza agreement and urged its sponsors to ensure its full implementation. He advocated expanding the agreement to address other regional crises, aiming for comprehensive peace based on international resolutions and the two-state solution principle.
In further discussions, Aoun instructed the foreign ministers of Lebanon and Bulgaria to draft a memorandum of understanding, reflecting strong bilateral relations and shared visions on common issues. He also emphasized the importance of judicial cooperation, particularly regarding the Beirut port explosion, and praised Bulgaria's cooperation in pursuing justice.
Additionally, President Aoun highlighted the need to increase trade between Lebanon and Bulgaria and revitalize the Lebanese-Bulgarian Business Forum. He also welcomed the agreement to support the Lebanese army.
Bulgarian President Rumen Radev expressed readiness to strengthen partnerships with Lebanon and contribute to Middle East stability. He highlighted Bulgaria's potential role in Lebanon's reconstruction and sectors like agriculture, education, and trade. Radev also emphasized the significance of military and security cooperation in supporting Lebanon's peace efforts.
The press conference followed an expanded meeting attended by key Lebanese officials, including Minister of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants Youssef Raggi and Lebanon's Ambassador to Bulgaria, among others. Bulgarian President Radev welcomed the Lebanese delegation, reaffirming Bulgaria's support for Lebanon's stability and Middle East peace efforts.
President Aoun acknowledged the shared interests between Lebanon and Bulgaria and highlighted potential areas for enhanced cooperation, including tourism, culture, education, and military support, aiming to strengthen bilateral relations for the mutual benefit of both nations.