Beirut: Prime Minister Nawaf Salam thanked Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit for his phone call and his welcome of the signing of the framework agreement between Lebanon and Israel. Salam highlighted the importance of Arab support for Lebanon during this phase, particularly in accompanying the implementation of the agreement in a way that ensures an Israeli withdrawal. He also called for mobilizing Arab support for the Lebanese Armed Forces and for efforts to rebuild areas damaged by the conflict.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, in his call earlier today, Aboul Gheit welcomed the framework agreement signed between Lebanon and Israel under US mediation, considering it an important step toward restoring the Lebanese state's ability to exercise full sovereignty over its territory and achieving a complete Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon. He added that it would also pave the way for displaced residents to return home and detainees to be released, while enabling the government to mobilize international efforts for the reconstruction of southern Lebanon.
The Secretary-General affirmed his continued support for all steps taken by the government to maintain security and stability in the country and to consolidate sovereignty over all Lebanese territory, reiterating the Arab League's full support and solidarity with Lebanon during what he described as a "pivotal stage" in its history, stressing the League's readiness to assume its responsibilities toward Lebanon amid the sensitive circumstances the country is going through.