Beirut: Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouli announced a steady growth in political communication between Egypt and Lebanon, emphasizing that the relationship between the two nations is grounded in mutual respect and joint cooperation. During a press conference with his Lebanese counterpart, Nawaf Salam, at the Grand Serail government headquarters, Madbouli highlighted that his visit to Beirut signifies the strengthening of political ties under the new Lebanese administration. This development has been evident since President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi's meeting with General Joseph Aoun, President of the Lebanese Republic, last May, which set the stage for subsequent reciprocal visits. These visits have underscored the unique and strong nature of Egyptian-Lebanese relations and the shared commitment to enhancing these ties.
According to State Information Service Egypt, Prime Minister Madbouli affirmed that his visit reflects the depth of historical and fraternal bonds between the two countries, built on mutual respect and solidarity. He commended the positive outcomes and strong momentum resulting from the visits by Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam to Cairo, where he met President El-Sisi. These visits culminated in the tenth session of the Egyptian-Lebanese Higher Joint Committee in Cairo last November, the first in six years. The session saw the signing of nearly 15 agreements in economic, cultural, media, and diplomatic fields, showcasing a clear political will to deepen bilateral relations.
Madbouli also shared details of an expanded meeting with the Lebanese prime minister, where they discussed various aspects of cooperation and reviewed regional political, economic, and security developments. He praised the efforts of President Aoun and the Lebanese government under Salam's leadership, particularly the measures aimed at achieving stability and strengthening state institutions, including the Lebanese Armed Forces.
Furthermore, Madbouli lauded the Lebanese Army's efforts to preserve Lebanon's unity and cohesion through a gradual approach based on the Taif Agreement and international resolutions. He reiterated Egypt's unwavering support for Lebanon during its challenging phase and emphasized Lebanon's importance as a pillar of stability in the Arab Mashreq. Egypt, he stated, is committed to preventing any escalation in Lebanon.
Concluding his remarks, Madbouli reaffirmed Egypt's firm stance against Israel's violations of Lebanese territory and called for Israel's immediate withdrawal from occupied parts of southern Lebanon. He stressed the importance of respecting the cessation of hostilities agreement and fully implementing relevant UN Security Council resolutions. Egypt remains dedicated to supporting Lebanon's stability and national unity, pledging continued assistance in all fields.