French President Emmanuel Macron has pledged support for Lebanon’s newly elected President Joseph Aoun as the nation recovers from a severe economic crisis and conflict with Israel-Hezbollah. Macron’s visit, his first in over four years, comes after a ceasefire agreement aimed at stabilizing the region and restoring international aid. His commitment emphasizes the importance of political reform to regain confidence among citizens and the international community.
French President Emmanuel Macron visited Lebanon to support the newly elected President Joseph Aoun amid the country’s recovery from a severe economic crisis and the recent Israel-Hezbollah war. During this trip, his first in four years, Macron expressed commitment to aid Lebanon’s stabilization and encouraged the new leadership to embark on political reform. Lebanon has recently emerged from a vacuum created by a two-year absence of a president, facilitating the nomination of a new caretaker government led by Nawaf Salam.
Macron’s visit follows a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah, which aims to end their prolonged conflict. This ceasefire was brokered in part by France, which also has military personnel involved in peacekeeping efforts. Macron emphasized the significance of international support for Lebanon, stating that confidence in the new government could lead to vital funds for rebuilding.
At a joint press conference, Macron acknowledged his past criticisms of Lebanese officials and underscored France’s substantial financial assistance, which includes over €80 million pledged from a total of €100 million. He reassured that France would continue to uphold its support for Lebanon’s new government to help restore national confidence and authority while addressing systemic issues of corruption and mismanagement that have plagued the country.
Notably, Macron conveyed his perceptions regarding Hezbollah’s weakened political standing post-conflict. He mentioned that the group had backed Aoun’s presidency while remaining neutral on the new prime minister’s candidacy. This shift indicates a potential for political realignment as Lebanon seeks to reclaim sovereignty and address the economic crisis that has left it in dire straits.
France has a historical connection to Lebanon dating back to its status as a French protectorate. In recent years, Lebanon has faced unprecedented challenges, including a devastating economic crisis and political instability, exemplified by a prolonged presidential vacancy. The Israeli-Hezbollah conflict has exacerbated these issues, leading to heightened international attention and intervention, particularly from France. Macron’s proactive approach aims to bolster Lebanon’s governance and international aid while remaining critical of its political history, encouraging reform and accountability.
Macron’s visit to Lebanon marks a significant step towards recognizing the new leadership’s role in stabilizing the country post-crisis. By pledging support and encouraging reform, France hopes to restore confidence within Lebanon’s political framework and revive international investment for economic recovery. The recent political changes and ceasefire agreements set the foundation for potential enhancement of Lebanon’s governance and societal structure.
Original Source: apnews.com
