Beirut: French President Emmanuel Macron discussed with Lebanon's caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati the latest developments in the country and efforts to rebuild Lebanon. In statements to the press during his visit to Beirut, Macron expressed appreciation for the efforts made by the caretaker prime minister, particularly during the recent challenges caused by the Israeli war on Lebanon.

According to Qatar News Agency, the French president noted that during his visit, he would meet with members of the ceasefire monitoring committee, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, and Speaker of the Lebanese Parliament Nabih Berri. For his part, Mikati confirmed that he discussed with Macron the current situation and the need for continued support for Lebanon across various sectors, particularly in economic recovery and reconstruction efforts.

He highlighted that President Macron expressed France's readiness to support Lebanon through a planned trust fund initiative in collaboration with the World Bank to aid reconstruction in the south. Regarding the nearing deadline for Israel's withdrawal from southern Lebanon, Mikati stated that Macron would meet with members of the ceasefire monitoring committee overseeing the implementation of measures related to the ceasefire and full application of Resolution 1701. He noted that progress is on track to complete the withdrawal within the specified timeframe.

The caretaker prime minister also addressed ongoing Israeli violations of the ceasefire agreement, confirming that these are being monitored by the Resolution 1701 implementation committee and complaints are being filed as necessary. He added that assurances have been given that these breaches will cease by the end of the 60-day deadline later this month.

President Macron arrived in Beirut earlier today on a short visit to reaffirm France's support for Lebanon's new leadership and to assist President Joseph Aoun.