ALBAWABA- French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Beirut on Friday for a 12-hour visit, marking a significant step in supporting Lebanon’s newly elected leadership and reinforcing the country’s sovereignty.
Macron met with President General Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam, offering congratulations on their appointments and reaffirming France’s steadfast commitment to Lebanon during this critical juncture.
Macron’s visit comes as France prepares to host a conference in Paris aimed at bolstering the Lebanese Armed Forces, a move seen as essential to restoring state authority and stabilizing the country.
His discussions emphasized the necessity of exclusive state control over arms, a particularly pressing issue given Lebanon’s history of external interference and internal fragmentation.
Macron pledged French support through a collaborative trust fund with the World Bank to aid Lebanon’s recovery, including efforts to rebuild the south and bolster economic reform.
This visit occurs amidst dramatic geopolitical shifts. Iran’s influence in the region has waned, with Hezbollah disarmed and withdrawing from southern Lebanon, and the Assad regime ousted in Syria.
Macron’s agenda reflects an opportunity to consolidate Lebanon’s sovereignty and push for reforms that have long eluded the country.
Lebanese Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian described the moment as a "new page of hope," crediting a coordinated international effort for Lebanon’s transition from political stagnation to recovery.
Macron also focused on ensuring the full implementation of a 60-day ceasefire brokered in November with U.S. President Joe Biden. He pledged France’s active role in monitoring compliance and holding all parties accountable, including addressing Israeli violations of Lebanese sovereignty.
Macron’s meetings with military officials underscored France’s pivotal role in fostering regional stability and reinforcing Lebanon’s territorial integrity.
Lebanese caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati praised Macron’s understanding and support, noting his commitment to continued collaboration.
Mikati highlighted Macron’s readiness to support Lebanon through various initiatives, including addressing Israeli violations that are expected to end with the ceasefire’s conclusion.
Macron’s visit signifies a renewed international focus on Lebanon’s unity and prosperity. “Lebanon holds symbolic and strategic importance in the Middle East,” a French presidential source stated, emphasizing France’s enduring dedication to the country.
