President Joseph Aoun leads a series of meetings
President of the Republic Joseph Aoun told Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias, who received him this afternoon at Baabda Palace, in the presence of Defense Minister Michel Menassa that Lebanese-Greek relations are deeply rooted in history, and cooperation between the two countries exists in more than one field.
President Aoun also expressed his determination to activate and develop these relations for the benefit of the two friendly countries, which share several common denominators.
President Aoun expressed his appreciation for the cooperation between the Lebanese and Greek armies, hailing Greece's contribution to the naval force operating within UNIFIL. Aoun also welcomed any support Greece provides to the Lebanese Armed Forces, as it demonstrates a mutual desire to further advance relations between the two countries.
President Aoun briefed Minister Dendias on the situation in the south and the role undertaken by the Lebanese army deployed in the villages and towns from which the Israeli army recently withdrew. Aoun also noted that the continued Israeli attacks on Lebanese territory and the failure to withdraw from the five hills and return the Lebanese prisoners constitute a violation of Security Council Resolution 1701 and the provisions of the agreement reached last November, and could threaten stability in the south.
Discussions during the meeting between President Aoun and the Greek Minister also covered the situation on the Lebanese-Syrian border.
Minister Dendias was accompanied by Greek Ambassador to Lebanon, Despina Koukoulopoulou, and a delegation.
Dendias congratulated President Aoun on assuming his presidential duties and wished him success.
Minister Dendias conveyed to President Aoun the greetings of the Greek Prime Minister and his country's readiness to provide the necessary support to the Lebanese Armed Forces, according to their needs, and to benefit from Greek expertise in various military fields.
Minister Dendias also extended an invitation to President Aoun to visit Greece.
On the other hand, President Aoun received at Baabda palace, a delegation from the global American law firm, Squire Patton Boggs, led by Gassan Balloul, Partner, Global Board Member and Levant Practice Group Leader.
The delegation highlighted the pivotal role the firm plays in providing legal and strategic advice to the countries it represents. They also emphasized the special importance the firm attaches to Lebanon, noting that the firm's presence in Beirut reflects its commitment to supporting Lebanon and its reform and progress path.
The discussion also addressed regional and international developments, emphasizing Lebanon's vital role in the region.
President Aoun also received at Baabda palace Lebanon's Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, Fouad Dandan, with discussions touching on the situation of the Lebanese community in the UAE, the bilateral relations between the two countries, and preparations underway for President Aoun’s official visit to Abu Dhabi at the invitation of UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
