A+ A-

France to enhance Lebanon's defense capabilities

PARIS, Sept 20 (KUNA) -- The Lebanese government on Friday signed a letter of intent with France on providing the former with navy equipment to boost its security and defense capabilities.
The letter also aims to protect Lebanon's onshore oil and gas fields in Eastern Mediterranean in the future.
Lebanon's Prime Minister Saad Al-Hariri lauded the deal as "essential investment for Lebanon to ensure the safety of its onshore gas and oil fields." He added that France is one of the supporters of Lebanon, noting that it expressed its backing through providing a USD 440-million loan with generous terms.
Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron said that the letter is part of following up of honoring France's commitment pledges during the 2018 Rome conference to provide the Lebanese army with this equipment.
Macron and Al-Hariri held talks on the latest developments in Lebanon and the region, and means of implementing the resolutions of Cedar (CEDRE) Conference. (end) mjz.tb.hm