Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said that Lebanon highly appreciates the efforts of French President Emmanuel Macron to help the country confront its current crisis resulting from continued Israeli attacks on its territory and the ongoing military escalation in the south.

Speaking during a meeting with General Vincent Giraud, Chief of Staff to the President of the French Republic, Aoun said his ongoing talks with Macron reflect a shared commitment to supporting Lebanon, ending the state of war, and assisting the country across various sectors.

He added that Lebanon welcomes the willingness of France and other European countries to maintain forces in southern Lebanon following the beginning of the withdrawal of United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, in support of the Lebanese Army’s efforts to preserve security and stability. He noted that the framework for these forces would be determined in consultation with the concerned countries and the United Nations.

Aoun also stressed the importance of holding a conference to support the Lebanese Army and Internal Security Forces, as well as a reconstruction conference.

He renewed his condolences over the deaths of French soldiers serving with UNIFIL, noting that the Lebanese judiciary has taken up the case and is continuing its investigation in preparation for identifying and arresting those responsible.