Source: Kataeb.org
Friday 31 January 2025 11:09:10
Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdel Aty met with Lebanese President Michel Aoun as part of growing Arab and Western engagement with Lebanon.
Following the meeting, Abdel Aty expressed confidence in Lebanon's ability to overcome its current crisis, reaffirming Egypt's steadfast support for the country.
"We have complete trust in President Aoun’s ability to steer Lebanon back on course and restore stability to our brotherly nation," he said.
Abdel Aty emphasized Egypt’s ongoing role in addressing regional challenges, highlighting the country’s regular communication with the new U.S. administration, Israel, and France to maintain a unified approach on key regional security issues. He stressed that Egypt’s position on Lebanon remains firm, particularly regarding efforts to halt violations of Lebanese sovereignty.
The Egyptian minister also underscored the importance of strengthening bilateral relations and reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to working closely with Lebanon once a new government is formed.
"We have emphasized the necessity of activating and developing all agreements between our two countries as soon as the new government is in place," Abdel Aty stated.
Reiterating Egypt's unwavering support for Lebanon’s sovereignty, he called for the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which demands Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon.
"Ensuring Lebanon's sovereignty is upheld without compromise is crucial," he added.
Abdel Aty also emphasized Egypt's role in promoting regional security, stressing the need for a halt to all violations and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon.
"Through our communications, we highlight the importance of respecting the ceasefire agreement," he said.
In addition to addressing political and security matters, Abdel Aty expressed Egypt’s readiness to contribute to Lebanon’s reconstruction efforts. He also stressed that the formation of Lebanon's government must be a fully national process.
"We support Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam in his efforts to form an inclusive government that does not exclude anyone and takes on its responsibilities," he said. "It is time for the Lebanese people to enjoy stability and rebuild what has been destroyed."
Abdel Aty also delivered an official invitation from Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi for President Aoun to visit Cairo.