President Aoun says preparatory talks expected with Lebanon’s ambassador in Washington, calls it major opportunity for Lebanon

Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun told a delegation from the “Strong Republic” bloc led by MP Sethrida Geagea that the current situation is “delicate” and requires strengthening national unity and avoiding anything that could undermine it.

Aoun said that through national decision-making and unity, Lebanon can face all challenges, adding that “manufactured negative rhetoric” about internal strife has no basis. 

He said he has personally chosen not to respond to criticism or attacks that he described as unjustified, noting they do not reflect even the environment from which they emerge.

He stressed that the most important role of political parties and movements is to rally behind the army, security agencies, and state institutions, which he described as the foundation of the country.

Regarding negotiations, Aoun said preparatory talks are expected in the coming days with Lebanon’s ambassador in Washington, describing the upcoming meeting as the third step paving the way for formal negotiations under U.S. sponsorship. 

He said this represents an important achievement for Lebanon, which he said enjoys personal attention from U.S. President Donald Trump, calling it a significant opportunity the country should seize.

He added that Lebanon is ready to accelerate the pace of negotiations in line with U.S. efforts, stressing that there is no alternative to the negotiation track. He said it serves all Lebanese without exception and does not target any group, noting that the country has grown weary of wars and their consequences.

Aoun said the objectives of any negotiation process include Israel’s withdrawal from occupied Lebanese territory and the return of detainees, which he described as long-standing Lebanese demands.