Lebanese President Joseph Aoun expressed deep gratitude for Iraq’s unwavering support during some of Lebanon’s most challenging periods, calling it a bond the Lebanese people "will never forget." His remarks came during an official state visit to Baghdad on Sunday, where he was welcomed with full honors by Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid.

The two heads of state met at the Presidential Palace for a bilateral summit that highlighted the enduring relationship between Lebanon and Iraq. Discussions covered a wide range of issues, from regional security and anti-terrorism efforts to economic cooperation and shared political challenges.

President Aoun’s visit began with a ceremonial reception, including a guard of honor and formal introductions of both delegations. In their 30-minute closed-door meeting, Aoun and Rashid reaffirmed the historic ties between their countries and discussed ways to expand cooperation across key sectors.

In a broader session that followed, President Rashid welcomed Aoun to what he called his "second home" and expressed optimism about Lebanon’s recent progress. He reiterated Iraq’s commitment to supporting Lebanon, saying Iraqis have always stood by the Lebanese people, especially during times of war and crisis.

"Iraqis have never been absent from Lebanon, even in its darkest and harshest times," Rashid said.

Aoun responded by thanking Iraq for its sustained assistance, particularly its role in delivering vital oil shipments during Lebanon’s energy crisis and in hosting Lebanese nationals displaced during past conflicts.

“These generous gestures will not be forgotten,” Aoun said, calling the relationship “deep-rooted and historically grounded.”

He highlighted continued security coordination between the two countries, praising the work of Lebanese General Security Director Maj. Gen. Hassan Shukeir in fostering collaboration with Iraqi counterparts to combat terrorism.

President Aoun addressed Lebanon’s internal reforms as well, pointing to ongoing efforts on the economic and financial fronts. He condemned Israeli airstrikes on Lebanese territory and its continued occupation of five border points, warning that such provocations jeopardize regional peace and undermine the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701.

Both leaders voiced concern over the humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in Gaza. Aoun called on global powers to go beyond verbal condemnation and take meaningful steps to end the suffering.

“The atrocities must stop,” Aoun said. “Civilians are paying the price, and the world cannot remain silent.”

Aoun and Rashid reaffirmed their commitment to the Palestinian cause, stating that crimes against civilians must not derail the larger pursuit of justice and statehood for Palestinians.

Turning to Syria, Aoun said that Lebanon continues to coordinate closely with Damascus on border security to prevent the reemergence of instability in the region.

He concluded his visit with an official invitation for President Rashid to travel to Lebanon.

Later in the day, President Aoun held talks with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al Sudani. At a joint press conference, Aoun laid out two primary challenges facing both Lebanon and Iraq: preserving national identity without marginalizing internal components, and asserting state sovereignty in the face of external pressures.

He argued that tackling these issues head-on would pave the way for broader regional cooperation and integration.

Aoun praised a framework proposed by Iraq’s top Shiite cleric, Sayyid Ali Al-Sistani, which calls for governance based on the rule of law, transparency, merit, state monopoly over weapons, and anti-corruption measures.

He also advocated for the creation of a common Arab market through phased institutional agreements, beginning with a few countries and expanding over time.

“It is time we live with dignity and freedom in this world,” Aoun said.

President Aoun reiterated his condemnation of Israeli aggression in both Lebanon and Syria, linking the violence to the crisis in Gaza. He called on the international community to take concrete steps toward de-escalation and long-term peace.

He voiced support for an upcoming international conference in New York, co-organized by Saudi Arabia and France, saying Lebanon would be closely watching the outcomes.

“To every Lebanese, Iraq is where solutions begin,” Aoun said. “This is more than a saying; it’s a truth proven time and again.”

Prime Minister Al Sudani reaffirmed Iraq’s commitment to Lebanon, announcing a $20 million aid package to assist with reconstruction and development efforts. He also echoed calls for the full implementation of UN Resolution 1701, describing it as a cornerstone for lasting peace in the region.