Synopsis
Lebanese FM Youssef Rajji stresses the critical need for Israel's full withdrawal from Lebanese territory per UN Security Council Resolution 1701, emphasizing its importance for regional stability during meetings with US and German officials.Key Takeaways
- Israel's withdrawal is essential for regional stability.
- Lebanese army plays a key role in maintaining security.
- Support for Lebanese detainees is appreciated.
- Economic development in Syria is vital for refugee return.
- Germany's role in advocating for Lebanon's sovereignty is crucial.
Beirut, March 13 (NationPress) Lebanese Foreign Minister Youssef Rajji reiterated the pressing necessity for Israel to completely withdraw from Lebanese territory as mandated by UN Security Council Resolution 1701.
During a discussion with US Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Levant and Syria engagement in the Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs, Natasha Franceschi, on Wednesday, along with US Ambassador to Lebanon Lisa Johnson, Rajji stressed that Israel's ongoing occupation is a significant concern, as reported by the official National News Agency citing Xinhua.
Rajji expressed his gratitude to the US for its mediation in securing the release of Lebanese detainees from Israel and for its sustained support of the Lebanese army.
Additionally, Rajji met with Niels Annen, Parliamentary State Secretary at Germany's Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, alongside German Ambassador to Lebanon Kurt Georg Stoeckl-Stillfried. He reiterated that Israel's immediate and unconditional withdrawal is crucial for regional stability and urged Germany to apply pressure for its realization.
He commended the Lebanese army's role in southern Lebanon under the framework of Resolution 1701, affirming Lebanon's capability to maintain security along its borders.
On the issue of Syrian refugees, Rajji highlighted the need for economic development in Syria and the lifting of sanctions to aid their return. He called on European countries to reconsider their strategies and accelerate repatriation efforts.
Annen, for his part, emphasized that Israel must respect Lebanon's sovereignty, cautioning that failure to withdraw could adversely affect Lebanon's stability and obstruct the government's initiatives.
He also reaffirmed Germany's commitment to Lebanon's reform agenda, underscoring the significance of economic and administrative reforms to regain international confidence and attract foreign investment.
