French President Emmanuel Macron and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman signed a strategic partnership on Monday to strengthen bilateral ties and ease tensions in the Middle East.
“The two leaders agreed to make every effort to contribute to de-escalation in the region, including helping to consolidate the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon,” according to a statement from Macron’s office.
They also called for the swift organization of presidential elections in Lebanon “to unite the Lebanese people and implement the reforms necessary for the country’s stability and security.”
Support for the Lebanese Army
Macron expressed optimism about Saudi support for the Lebanese Army, currently stationed near the Israeli border under the ceasefire agreement but lacking sufficient weaponry and training.
The French president pledged to seek Saudi assistance to address Lebanon’s political disintegration, which has plunged its government and economy into crisis.
PM Keir Starmer Committed to Peace in Lebanon
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer reaffirmed on Tuesday his government’s commitment to maintaining peace in Lebanon and resolving the Gaza conflict.
Speaking at the annual Lord Mayor’s Banquet in London, Starmer stated, “We will work to maintain peace in Lebanon, end the conflict in Gaza and bring hostages home.”
He also urged the Syrian regime and all actors to pursue a political resolution to end the fighting.
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