Beirut, Jan 11 (NationPress) The newly appointed President of Lebanon, Joseph Aoun, received the Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides to engage in discussions about their bilateral relations and the pressing needs of Lebanon.
During their meeting on Friday at the presidential palace, Aoun emphasized Lebanon's demand for the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from its territories and the necessity of deploying the Lebanese army along the southern border, as stated in a release from Lebanon's Presidency.
Aoun expressed his appreciation for the Cypriot president's visit, which occurred on the second day of his presidency, viewing it as a symbol of hope for all Lebanese, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
He highlighted Lebanon's urgent priorities, including support for the economy and the Lebanese Armed Forces. Furthermore, he underscored the importance of European Union support for Lebanon's new government once it is established.
Christodoulides reiterated Cyprus' commitment to supporting Lebanon, promising to advocate for increased European Union engagement in assisting the nation. He also extended an invitation to Aoun to participate in the upcoming European Council meeting in Brussels in March to present Lebanon's aspirations and requirements to European leaders.
Joseph Aoun was elected president in the second round of the presidential election held on Thursday, as reported by local media.
Aoun secured 99 votes during the second round of the electoral session, which was attended by 128 members of parliament, according to Lebanese TV channel Al Jadeed. His election concludes a period of more than two years of presidential vacancy in Lebanon.
In the second round, Shibli Mallat, a notable legal figure in Lebanon, received two votes. Nine lawmakers cast blank ballots, while 13 voted for 'sovereignty and the constitution', and five ballots were deemed invalid, as reported by Al Jadeed.
Aoun did not achieve a two-thirds majority, or 86 votes, in the first round of voting earlier that day, leading to a two-hour adjournment before proceeding to a second round, where a simple majority of 65 votes was required for victory.
