Ankara wishes to play active role in all initiatives aimed at safeguarding Lebanon’s sovereignty following withdrawal of UN force, says President Erdogan.
Ankara and Beirut share "deep-rooted ties," said Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on Thursday, adding that there is a "strong" drive to work together to serve both nations' interests.
"There is a strong will to cooperate in ways that serve the interests of both countries and contribute to regional stability," Aoun told a joint news conference with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in the Turkish capital Ankara.
Aoun praised Erdogan's vision and steadfast commitment to strengthening Türkiye-Lebanon relations.
Aoun said discussions are continuing over a possible international force to replace the UN force in southern Lebanon, with proposals including European, Turkish, NATO-backed, Arab, and Islamic participation. He said Lebanon's priority is preventing a power vacuum and ensuring that any new force supports the Lebanese army, safeguards stability, and respects national sovereignty.
Following the withdrawal of the current international UN force, Türkiye wants to play an active role in all initiatives aimed at safeguarding Lebanon's sovereignty, Erdogan said. Türkiye has previously contributed to the naval wing of UNIFIL, the current UN force.
"We will continue our support for strengthening Lebanon's institutional capacity and also maintain our humanitarian and technical assistance," Erdogan added.
President Erdogan said Türkiye is "closely" following diplomatic initiatives seeking an end to Israel's attacks and occupation.
Türkiye stands ready to provide "all possible support" for the reconstruction of southern Lebanon after the Israeli attacks end, he added.
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