President of the National Dialogue Party, MP Fouad Makhzoumi, hosted a lunch in honor of French Ambassador to Lebanon Hervé Magro at his residence, in the presence of Political Adviser Carol Zouein. Discussions focused on the situation in Lebanon and the region, particularly developments in Gaza and southern Lebanon.

Makhzoumi underscored the strength of Lebanese-French relations and renewed his thanks to France for its steadfast support for Lebanon, especially during this difficult period in the country’s history.

Makhzoumi commended France’s efforts to keep Lebanon out of regional conflicts, reiterating the need to fully implement all provisions of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701 and to task the Lebanese Army with protecting and securing the borders. He also emphasized the importance of maintaining the presence of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), particularly amid the ongoing escalation in southern Lebanon and the risks facing residents there. He stated that the current circumstances make it increasingly necessary to provide these forces with support and strengthen coordination and cooperation with the Lebanese Army.

Makhzoumi stressed that the various complex issues and difficult circumstances facing the Lebanese people make it all the more urgent to elect a President of the Republic who possesses the necessary qualifications to lead Lebanon’s recovery. He also expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the Quintet Committee, which met in Doha to seek a solution to the presidential vacuum.