Baabda: President of the Republic, General Joseph Aoun, on Monday received at Baabda Palace a delegation from the American Task Force for Lebanon (ATFL), headed by Edward Gabriel.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Ambassador Gabriel noted that he will hold meetings with Prime Minister Judge Nawaf Salam, several ministers, politicians, and Lebanon's Central Bank Governor. Gabriel also mentioned carrying a message from Washington emphasizing the need to disarm Hezbollah and implement necessary reforms for Lebanon to receive financial aid, highlighting that the US capital looks forward to quick implementation of these changes.
President Aoun welcomed the delegation, expressing gratitude for their support. He emphasized that reforms and disarmament are demands of both Lebanon and the international community, including the United States. Aoun highlighted Lebanon's commitment to these efforts, stating that he signed the banking secrecy law last week and that the government is actively discussing a draft law to restructure the banking sector, with discussions scheduled to conclude soon. He reiterated that building trust is a process already underway.
The President also affirmed Lebanon's full commitment to UN Resolution 1701 and praised UNIFIL's work in the South Litani sector while pointing out Israeli violations of the ceasefire agreement. He revealed that six camps controlled by Palestinian groups outside the camps, north of the Litani River, have been dismantled, with weapons confiscated or destroyed.
Aoun stressed the importance of resolving matters calmly, noting that Israel's continued presence in certain occupied points complicates the situation and urging the United States to pressure Israel to withdraw. He mentioned the government's decision to recruit 4,500 soldiers to bolster preparedness in the south.
In addressing the issue of disarming Hezbollah, President Aoun emphasized the importance of dialogue, reiterating that all weapons should be within the state's framework and matters resolved through communication. He expressed plans to soon work on a National Security Strategy, from which the National Defense Strategy will emerge.
The President emphasized Lebanon's unified position and commitment to a common goal, acknowledging that differences of opinion are normal in a democracy and that engagement in dialogue is essential.