Ankara: Lebanese President Joseph Aoun emphasized the importance of Turkey's role in Lebanon's economic recovery and the implementation of the US-mediated framework agreement with Israel. Speaking in an exclusive interview with Anadolu ahead of his upcoming official visit to Turkey, President Aoun outlined the potential for enhanced Lebanese-Turkish cooperation and Turkey's strategic significance in regional stability.
According to Anadolu Agency, President Aoun highlighted Turkey's central position in the region and its NATO membership, which qualify it to support the international promotion of the framework agreement and encourage compliance among relevant parties. The framework, signed on June 26, involves a phased Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory, the deployment of the Lebanese army, and the disarmament of armed groups, including Hezbollah.
President Aoun expressed Lebanon's commitment to the framework agreement and called for Turkey's political and diplomatic support to ensure its successful implementation. He underscored the necessity of clear guarantees, such as a full Israeli withdrawal and an effective international mechanism to verify compliance, to prevent incomplete implementation.
The Lebanese president also sees Turkey's role as pivotal in supporting Lebanon's sovereignty and stability through its influence and regional ties. Aoun emphasized the need for Turkey's supportive role, particularly in controlling Lebanon's borders and preventing arms smuggling. He stressed that Turkey's involvement should complement, not replace, the Lebanese state's efforts to maintain stability and authority.
On economic matters, Aoun is optimistic about Turkey's contribution to Lebanon's recovery through investment, trade, and reconstruction efforts. He encouraged Turkish companies to invest in Lebanon's productive sectors and benefit from Turkey's experience in reconstruction.
Regarding military cooperation, Aoun plans to discuss expanding military support and training programs with Turkey. He clarified that any Turkish support would be an addition to existing US and international aid, not a replacement.
Addressing the potential for Turkey's participation in an international force to replace the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), Aoun noted ongoing discussions and multiple proposals, including Turkish participation. He emphasized the priority of ensuring no security vacuum occurs after UNIFIL's mandate ends.
On the topic of internal challenges, Aoun acknowledged Hezbollah's stance against negotiations with Israel. He reiterated the Lebanese state's constitutional authority in sovereignty and security matters and emphasized the need for internal consensus and dialogue to place arms solely in the hands of the state.
Concerning Syrian involvement, Aoun reaffirmed that decisions regarding Lebanese arms control remain sovereign and are not subject to external mediation or interference, including from Syria. He stressed the importance of respecting each country's sovereignty in bilateral relations with Syria.
The Lebanese president's statements reflect a strategic approach to bolstering Lebanon's stability and economic prospects, with a focus on strengthening ties with Turkey and ensuring the successful implementation of the framework agreement.