Macron Reinforces French Support for Lebanese Army with New Training Facility

BEIRUT: French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Friday a new initiative to strengthen Lebanon’s military capabilities, emphasizing France’s ongoing commitment to Lebanon’s sovereignty and stability. At a joint press conference with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun at Baabda Palace, Macron unveiled plans to establish a training facility for Lebanese troops.

“France will establish a new center to train 500 Lebanese soldiers,” Macron stated, reinforcing his country’s pledge to aid the Lebanese army in maintaining authority and security across Lebanon.

Support for Lebanese Sovereignty

Macron underscored France’s stance on Lebanon’s territorial integrity, advocating for the complete evacuation of Israeli forces and exclusive control of arms by the Lebanese army. “France desires full Lebanese sovereignty over its land,” Macron said, aligning with broader international calls for a stable and autonomous Lebanon.

International Collaboration for Lebanon

Macron also met with Lebanon’s Prime Minister Najib Mikati to discuss strategies for economic recovery and infrastructure rebuilding. The talks included plans for a trust fund, established in collaboration with the World Bank, aimed at rehabilitating southern Lebanon.

Highlighting the need for a collective global effort, Macron noted, “We will work to mobilize the international community to assist Lebanon across various sectors.” Lebanese President Aoun echoed Macron’s sentiments, emphasizing the need to restore global confidence in Lebanon.

France’s Broader Regional Role

Macron’s visit comes as France continues its diplomatic and humanitarian engagement in the Middle East. Macron reaffirmed France’s support for the International Criminal Court (ICC), which issued arrest warrants last year for key Israeli and Hamas leaders over alleged war crimes.

Christophe Lemoine, a French foreign ministry spokesperson, stressed the importance of accountability, stating, “The fight against impunity is our priority.” Lemoine also expressed concern over the cultural heritage destruction in Gaza and Lebanon during regional conflicts, a matter France views as integral to maintaining international stability.

Macron’s initiatives reflect France’s enduring role as a key ally to Lebanon, underscoring the importance of sovereignty, security, and cultural preservation in the region.

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