BEIRUT, July 10 (Xinhua) -- Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on Thursday called on the European Union (EU) to launch a comprehensive initiative to support the Lebanese army, warning that a deterioration in security would have repercussions across the region.
"Without the Lebanese army, there is a real risk that the security situation will collapse -- and the consequences will not stop at our borders," Aoun cautioned during a meeting with EU ambassadors.
According to a statement released by Lebanon's presidency, Aoun urged the EU to channel support toward basic military needs, rather than advanced weaponry, stressing the army's role in counterterrorism, border control, and cooperation with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon.
The president appealed for the lifting of European sanctions on Lebanon, suggesting instead a strategy of economic stimulus, easier access to development loans, and a collaborative Lebanese-European framework.
As part of his broader vision, Aoun also proposed convening a Euro-Arab conference to rebuild Lebanon's economy and reinforce its political and military sovereignty.
For their part, the EU ambassadors acknowledged the burdens Lebanon faces and voiced alignment with Aoun's call for refugee returns. Enditem
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