BEIRUT, July 11 (Xinhua) -- Lebanese President Joseph Aoun affirmed on Friday that normalizing diplomatic relations with Israel is currently not under consideration, emphasizing that Lebanon's current focus is on maintaining peace, not entering formal ties.
"Peace means a state of non-war, and that is what matters to Lebanon right now," he said, according to a statement released by Lebanon's presidency.
Aoun's remarks came during a meeting with a delegation from the Arab and International Relations Council.
During the meeting, Aoun stressed that the unity of the Lebanese people is crucial to overcoming the country's ongoing challenges.
"Without national unity, it will not be easy to face the difficulties that lie ahead," he said. He reiterated that the state has made an irreversible decision to ensure the exclusive possession of arms by legitimate authorities.
"This principle is key to safeguarding national sovereignty and will be implemented in a manner that maintains civil peace and national stability," he added.
On Lebanese-Syrian relations, Aoun stressed the importance of establishing positive ties with the new Syrian leadership and mutual non-interference in internal affairs. He noted that ongoing coordination between Lebanese and Syrian security forces is essential for border control and preventing the smuggling of weapons, drugs, and people.
Turning to southern Lebanon, Aoun reaffirmed the Lebanese state's full commitment to United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, while accusing Israel of inventing pretexts to violate international agreements. These ongoing Israeli actions, he warned, are keeping tensions high in the south and other areas of Lebanon. Enditem
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