French Prime Minister praises Mikati’s efforts to protect Lebanon

French Prime Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault praised the efforts exerted by his Lebanese counterpart Najib Mikati to protect Lebanon from dangers that surround it. Ayrault reiterated his solidarity with Lebanon and his support to the state institutions “in order to keep them immune from the Syrian conflict.”      

Ayrault reiterated France’s commitment to guarantee stability in south Lebanon through the UNIFIL, stressing the call for ensuring the safety and security of the French contingent. “My country is ready to support the LAF and activate the programs of security cooperation between the Lebanese and French institutions,” he said.    

In turn, Mikati announced that 3 factors influence stability in Lebanon: the situation in south Lebanon, the Special Tribunal for Lebanon (STL) and the self-distancing policy adopted towards the Syrian crisis. The Premiere highlighted the importance of France’s contribution in supporting the plan set by the government to develop the capacities of the LAF. 

Mikati stressed the government’s commitment to carry out legislative elections on time in line with the principles of democracy and power devolution. “The Lebanese banking sector is respecting all of its international obligations to remain immune from dangers, mainly amid the latest regional developments,” he said.     

Mikati had kicked off his official visit to France on Monday with a meeting held with his French counterpart at the Matignon Palace with the participation of the Lebanese delegation.      

Mikati is expected to visit the French National Assembly this afternoon to meet with its President Claude Bartolone.


To watch the video, click on the image above