Source: Kataeb.org
Friday 16 August 2024 16:45:47
Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdel Ati emphasized his country's commitment to preventing Lebanon from becoming embroiled in regional tensions, stressing that Egypt is actively engaging with Iran and other regional powers to promote de-escalation, particularly in light of the escalating violence in Gaza and its potential impact on Lebanon.
Abdel Ati highlighted the deep-rooted ties between Egypt and Lebanon, describing the relationship as one that has endured for thousands of years.
"We hold Lebanon and its people in high regard, and we cherish the strong bond that unites our nations," he stated in a joint news conference with his Lebanese counterpart Abdallah Bou Habib in Beirut.
The foreign minister further disclosed that Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi had specifically tasked him with monitoring Lebanon’s situation, underscoring Egypt’s concern over the crises plaguing the country.
“Lebanon’s problems have repercussions beyond its borders, and resolving these issues is a priority for Egypt,” Abdel Ati said.
He also stressed that an immediate ceasefire in Gaza is crucial to halting the conflict's spread, noting that Egypt, in collaboration with Qatar, is working tirelessly to secure a truce, reduce tensions, and prevent the outbreak of a full-scale war.
The Egyptian foreign minister also condemned recent acts of violence targeting Lebanon, particularly the assassination that occurred in Beirut’s southern suburbs. He reiterated Egypt’s support for the extension of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) mandate for another year, citing the force’s role in maintaining security and stability along Lebanon’s southern border.
Abdel Ati called for the full implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, which he described as the cornerstone of stability in the region, stressing that this resolution must be upheld by all parties involved, not just Lebanon, to ensure lasting peace.
Lebanese Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib expressed Lebanon’s deep gratitude for Egypt’s unwavering support, particularly through initiatives aimed at resolving the country’s crises.
Bou Habib expressed hope that the international community, alongside regional and Arab efforts, would unite to address the Syrian refugee crisis that Lebanon is currently grappling with. He called on the Arab League to engage with Syria in finding a solution to this pressing issue.
In a concluding plea, Bou Habib urged Lebanon’s Arab allies to exert pressure on Israel to restore calm to southern Lebanon.
“We rely on our Arab brothers to help us achieve peace and stability in this turbulent time,” he said.