30 Jun 2025 14:32 PM Aoun reiterates commitment to stability, reform, and sovereignty during meetings

MTV Lebanon

a day ago

President of the Republic Joseph Aoun held a series of meetings at Baabda Palace, reaffirming Lebanon's steadfast commitment to international peacekeeping cooperation, institutional reform, and national sovereignty.
In a meeting with the newly appointed Commander of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), Major General Diodato Abagnara, President Aoun emphasized the urgent need to maintain UNIFIL's presence in the South in partnership with the Lebanese Army.
'The current regional conditions require, more than ever, the continued presence of international forces working alongside our army to preserve stability in the South, which is inseparable from regional stability,' Aoun said.
Moreover, the President condemned ongoing Israeli hostilities and its occupation of the 'Five Hills' as clear violations of UN Security Council Resolution 1701. He also underscored the importance of UNIFIL's broader role, including its humanitarian and developmental engagement in southern communities.
'UNIFIL not only provides security but also vital social and health services, offering employment to over 500 Lebanese families,' he added. He informed General Abagnara of Lebanon's ongoing efforts to reinforce army presence in the South.
General Abagnara thanked the President for his support and affirmed his intent to further strengthen cooperation with the Lebanese Armed Forces.
President Aoun also received a delegation from the Armenian Tashnag Party, including MP Hagop Pakradounian and Secretary-General Albert Balabanian. Discussions focused on national developments and the party's support for the President's stances, particularly regarding national dialogue and exclusive state control over arms. The delegation also raised concerns about equal representation for the Armenian community in the public sector.
Later, President Aoun met with the Superior General of the Lebanese Maronite Order, Abbot Hadi Mahfouz, who invited him to attend the annual Saint Charbel Mass at the Monastery of Saint Maron in Annaya on July 20. The event will be presided over by Maronite Patriarch Cardinal Bechara Boutros al-Rahi and will mark the inauguration of the first phase of the 'Saint Charbel Trail' project. The trail's northern segment stretches from Annaya to Tannourine, passing through several historic villages, while the southern route—from Harissa to Annaya—is expected to be completed next year.
President Aoun also welcomed a delegation from the Syndicate of Owners of Restaurants, Cafés, Night-Clubs and Pastries, headed by Tony Ramy.
Ramy expressed the sector's strong belief in the President's reform agenda, describing trust as the foundation of economic recovery. He emphasized tourism as a twin pillar alongside political stability, and advocated for updated tourism legislation to replace outdated laws.
Highlighting the sector's resilience, Ramy noted that while the number of hospitality establishments fell from 8,500 in 2019 to 4,500 in 2022, the industry remains a vital part of Lebanon's identity and economy.
In response, President Aoun praised the sector's resilience and stressed the necessity of rebuilding public trust and restoring investor confidence.
'Without security, tourism cannot thrive, and without economic stability, reform is impossible,' Aoun said.
The President reiterated that fighting corruption is at the heart of his agenda, calling it Lebanon's most deeply rooted challenge.
'Lebanon is not bankrupt, it is a victim of entrenched corruption,' Aoun stated. 'Fighting this culture of corruption is a battle we are determined to win, regardless of the obstacles.'
President Aoun also received former Ambassador Tracy Chamoun at Baabda Palace.