BEIRUT, Jan 9 (KUNA) - Lebanese President Joseph Aoun stressed the need of applying pressures on the Israeli occupation forces to honor their obligations under the ceasefire agreement, halt their attacks on Lebanon and pull out from the southern parts of the country.
Instability on Lebanon could have negative impacts on entire Europe, "which nobody could want," a statement quoted President Aoun as saying during his meeting with two European Union delegations at Baabda Palace near Beirut on Friday.
The delegations are led by President of the European Council Antonio Costa and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen.
"Lebanon's stability is a shared interest for both the Lebanese people and Europeans alike," he stressed.
"The persistent Israeli occupation of five border points in southern Lebanon hampers the deployment of the Lebanese forces and restoration of the state authority there," he pointed out.
President Aoun called on the EU member states to provide the Lebanese army and security forces with the necessary military equipment to help them complete their deployment to south Litani River.
He renewed appreciation of the desire of some EU members to extend their participation in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) On his part, Antonio Costa said that the European Union has consistently supported Lebanon through crises, providing humanitarian aid, technical support, and a commitment to help ensure the stability and prosperity of Lebanon in the long term.
The President of the European Council agreed that "Lebanon's stability is not only essential for its citizens but for the entire region." "Regional cooperation is key to peace and security for all. We are committed to Lebanon's sovereignty and territorial integrity. "There is no space for armed militias. They undermine the country's security and stability. "I welcome President Aoun leadership in working to establish the State monopoly on arms. "This is a critical step toward ensuring Lebanon's full control over its territory. "In that context, I welcome the announcement that the Lebanese army has completed the first phase of Hezbollah's disarmament," Costa said.
He also welcomed the involvement of civilian representatives from both Lebanon and the Israel occupation at this week's meeting of the Ceasefire Monitoring Mechanism - this a significant step forward. "Permanent stability in the region cannot be achieved through military means alone. The EU is ready to support Lebanon as it navigates this rapidly changing landscape. Lebanon can count on the EU. Our proximity - geographically, historically, and culturally - forms a powerful bond between our people and guides our partnership," he added.
On a similar note, Ursula von der Leyen emphasised the EU and Lebanon's strong partnership, which includes financial support as well as cooperation with the Lebanese Armed Forces.
Regarding the current security situation in Lebanon, the President of the European Commission said: "We also agree that it is crucial that the ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel is fully respected by all parties." "Lebanon's sovereignty and territorial integrity has to be upheld. And it is paramount to ensure that Hezbollah is fully disarmed," she affirmed. (end) fz.rj.gb