Beirut: French President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed that France will continue supporting Lebanon in asserting its sovereignty over its entire territory, adding that the election of President Joseph Aoun has brought renewed hope to the country.

According to Qatar News Agency, during a press conference with the Lebanese president in Beirut today, Macron emphasized that resolving Lebanon’s political vacuum and electing a new president puts the nation on the path to recovery.

Macron expressed France’s desire for the withdrawal of Israeli occupation forces from southern Lebanon and emphasized that weapons should only be in the hands of the Lebanese army.

The French president also called on donors to honor their pledges to assist those displaced by the war, stressing that the presence of Lebanese military forces is essential for Lebanon’s sovereignty and vital for ensuring respect for the ceasefire.

Macron added that France will continue training Lebanese soldiers while enhancing cooperation with UNIFIL to help them carry out their mission, underlining the need for implementation of Resolution 1701 and demarcation of borders along the Blue Line.

Meanwhile, Lebanese President General Joseph Aoun stated that the Lebanese people’s trust in their country has been restored and urged the world to regain confidence in Lebanon.

President Macron arrived in Beirut this morning for a brief visit, where he met with Lebanese caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati to discuss the latest developments and efforts to rebuild Lebanon.