Jumblatt Visits Macron: Policy, Army, and Resolution 1701

MTV's correspondent in Paris reported, citing the Élysée Palace, that French President Emmanuel Macron received former President of the Progressive Socialist Party, Walid Jumblatt, at the Élysée Palace. Macron and Jumblatt discussed the political situation in Lebanon. The French President stated that his country remains fully committed to Lebanon through President Macron's envoy to Lebanon, Jean-Yves Le Drian, to find a solution to the institutional crisis that weakens the country. Le Drian will maintain close communication with civil society and Lebanese officials and will coordinate with international partners. Macron reiterated his call for all Lebanese politicians to assume responsibility in order to break the current deadlock. The French President once again affirmed his country's complete commitment to avoid the risks of deterioration amid growing tensions along the Blue Line between Israel and Lebanon, in accordance with Resolution 1701, and emphasized France's historical commitment to the security of Lebanon and the Lebanese people. The French presidency's statement added that Macron addressed France's continued mobilization for UNIFIL and reiterated that Paris would continue to provide necessary support to the army to ensure Lebanon's stability.