Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani has highlighted his country’s support for the Lebanese Army, through the provision of personnel training and its large contingent operating with the UN peacekeeping force in south Lebanon.
In an interview with Al-Arabiya TV channel on Wednesday, Tajani said that “around 100 Italian military personnel are providing training to Lebanese soldiers,” as part of Italy’s efforts to beef up the Army’s capacities.
“Lebanon’s stability depends largely on reinforcing the capacities and might of its Army,” the head of the Italian diplomacy said, praising Army Commander-in-Chief, General Joseph Aoun, whom he described as a “good commander” and a friend of Italy.
Tajani also called for “stabilizing southern Lebanon and holding presidential elections,” stressing the importance of defusing tensions, not only in Lebanon, but also in Syria and the whole region.
“We need the participation of Arab countries such as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Emirates, and Qatar, all of which can play an important role in pushing toward peace,” he added.
Tajani pointed out that Jordan is also an important country, and that all these countries, alongside the US and Italy, must work together for peace between the Palestinians and Israel.
