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In an interview with the newspaper An-NaharFrench President Emmanuel Macron insisted on the need for Israel and Hezbollah to respect the ceasefire established in Lebanon.
“We will continue to call for lasting respect for the ceasefire in Lebanon. It is essential that the parties – this goes for Hezbollah and Israel – fulfill all their obligations,” the president said. This reminder comes in a context where the truce, although fragile, constitutes hope for a Lebanon deeply affected by more than a year of conflict.
Support for the Lebanese Armed Forces
Macron also highlighted the central role of the Lebanese Armed Forces (FAL) in the stabilization of the country. He recalled the importance for the international community to continue to support them, in line with the commitments made during the conference organized in Paris on October 24.
“The Lebanese Armed Forces are a cornerstone of this agreement and the restoration of Lebanon’s sovereignty,” the president said, stressing the importance of strengthening state institutions to stabilize the country in the long term.
The role of Saudi Arabia
Emmanuel Macron highlighted Saudi Arabia’s contribution to Lebanon’s stability. According to him, Riyadh’s role is crucial in resolving the current political crisis and supporting reconstruction.
The president revealed he spoke with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman about supporting FAL and reconstruction efforts, as well as political perspectives related to the parliamentary session scheduled for January 9aimed at electing a president.
An expected presidential election
The French president insisted on the urgency of electing a president capable of leading Lebanon towards an end to the crisis. According to Macron, the presidential vacancy aggravates institutional dysfunctions and hinders reform efforts.
“Now that the truce is in place, the process must accelerate,” he said, welcoming the announcement by the Speaker of the Lebanese Parliament to convene a parliamentary session on January 9. Macron hopes that this session will be decisive and put an end to the country’s institutional crisis.
Call to Hezbollah and the Lebanese parties
In his statements, Emmanuel Macron urged all Lebanese parties, in particular Hezbollah, to contribute to consensus and strengthen national unity. He added that he had asked Jean-Yves Le Drian, his special envoy for Lebanon, to go there after the conclusion of the ceasefire to support diplomatic efforts.
A vision for Lebanon’s future
Emmanuel Macron called for a national dialogue capable of meeting the aspirations of all Lebanese people. He also stressed the importance of a functional government and structural reforms to restore the confidence of international partners.
“More than ever, Lebanon needs a president capable of leading a national dialogue, and a government committed to reforms to stabilize and rebuild the country,” Macron said, stressing the importance of international contributions in these efforts.
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