Gemayel Meets Egyptian Ambassador, Says Arms Must Remain Under State Authority to Safeguard Stability

Lebanese Kataeb Party leader, MP Samy Gemayel, met with Egyptian Ambassador to Lebanon, Dr. Alaa Moussa, at his office in Bikfaya, with talks focusing on the current political situation in Lebanon following the ceasefire, the looming presidential election session, as well as upcoming challenges.

During the meeting, Gemayel emphasized the importance of all parties adhering to the terms of the ceasefire agreement, specifically in terms of placing arms under the exclusive control of the Lebanese authorities in order to prevent Lebanon from being dragged into new conflicts that do not serve its interests. He further reiterated the need to keep Lebanon neutral in regional conflicts, as this would be crucial for maintaining the country’s stability and safeguarding its sovereignty.

Gemayel also highlighted the significance of approaching Lebanon’s upcoming presidential election session with utmost seriousness, away from the logic of imposition. He reiterated his call for the election of a sovereign president who could guide Lebanon toward becoming a modern state built on principles of equality, partnership, and the rule of law.

Speaking after the meeting, Ambassador Alaa Moussa described his meeting with Gemayel as “constructive” and “important,” especially at a time when Lebanon is in need of a comprehensive evaluation of the recent events that have impacted both the country and the wider region. 

"I listened to the ideas presented by the Kataeb leader, which were valuable and worthy of consideration. We also discussed efforts to solidify the ceasefire, as this ultimately reflects on the security of both Lebanon and the region."

The Egyptian diplomat noted that discussions also touched on other critical issues, including the upcoming presidential election session scheduled for January 9. Moussa explained that MP Gemayel shared with him the ongoing efforts and communications he has been involved in, expressing hope that the coming period would bring forward good and positive ideas leading to the election of a president.

Moussa emphasized that the goal is not only to elect a president, but also to achieve a broader set of objectives following the election. He noted that the path ahead remains long, with several important and sensitive stages that Lebanon must go through in order to recover from the challenges and setbacks it has faced in recent years.

The meeting, held at Gemayel's office in Bikfaya, was attended by members of the Kataeb's political bureau, lawyers Samir Khallaf and George Estefan, the party’s foreign affairs advisor, Dr. Michel Abu Abdallah, and lawyer Eli Zreik, a member of the party’s foreign affairs department. The Egyptian ambassador was also accompanied by his political advisor, Mustafa Mahrous.