Lebanon – Jean-Noël Barrot’s meeting with his counterpart (13.02.25)

The Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs had a meeting on 13 February with his new Lebanese counterpart, Mr Youssef Raggi, on the sidelines of the Paris international conference on Syria. He warmly congratulated him on his appointment to the government that Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam formed on 8 February.

The Minister reaffirmed France’s full support for the process of change begun by President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, aimed at putting Lebanon back on the path of reconstruction, recovery and stability. The two ministers agreed on the importance of the anticipated reforms for meeting the Lebanese people’s aspirations, for justice in particular, and enabling the country’s economic recovery.

The Minister recalled that France is resolutely committed to honouring the commitments made by Israel and Lebanon under the ceasefire of 26 November 2024. The ministers stressed the need for a complete withdrawal of the Israeli army to south of the Blue Line, in accordance with the agreed timeframe, and for Lebanon’s armed forces to be actually deployed in that area, in conformity with the United Nations Security Council resolutions.

The two ministers discussed the situation in Syria. They agreed on the need for a peaceful, inclusive transition in Syria, and for everyone’s security interests and rights to be safeguarded. In this context, they highlighted the importance of peaceful relations between Syria and Lebanon for regional stability.

Finally, they welcomed the unshakeable friendship between France and Lebanon, and the depth and diversity of ties between the Lebanese and French peoples. France will remain fully mobilized alongside the Lebanese people to support them on the path to sovereignty and prosperity.