French President Emmanuel Macron affirmed that "creating appropriate conditions for electing a President of the Lebanese Republic and forming an active government is urgent," and that his personal representative, Jean-Yves Le Drian, continues to work in this direction. In a message addressed to the caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati on the occasion of Independence Day, Macron stated, "Given the historical relations between our two countries, France is doubling its efforts to enhance Lebanon's stability, security, and independence. We have continually supported these goals."
Macron explained that "the extension of conflict to Lebanon would have dire consequences for the country and the Lebanese people. France recognizes that it has a unique responsibility towards your country, a responsibility that is particularly expressed through the role we play within the UNIFIL peacekeeping forces. No party should use Lebanese territory in a manner that contradicts its sovereign interests. We must today avoid the worst. Therefore, I urge you to continue your efforts in this direction." He added, "I have assured the Israeli Prime Minister, every time I have communicated with him, of the attention we pay to your country and expressed my concern regarding the risks of escalation and the extension of conflict to Lebanon."
He continued, "In addition to this fundamental issue, there is an urgent need to stabilize Lebanese institutions. The presidential vacancy that has lasted for more than a year weighs heavily on the country's ability to emerge from the current crisis and avoid the security deterioration linked to the ongoing war in Gaza. Without a president or an effective government, there is no chance of overcoming the security, social, economic, and financial impasse primarily affecting the Lebanese people."
He added, "Lebanon is rich with its living forces, and the Lebanese men and women have our sincere friendship, trust, and support as the richness and diversity of our relations are a testament to this." He stated, "Lebanon possesses all the components to rise again, drawing upon a range of talents, entrepreneurs, researchers, and innovators whose fame is global, and who can breathe new life into the country. I hope that awakening will finally be possible."
He concluded by saying, "I assure you, Mr. Prime Minister, that France stands today by Lebanon as it always has."
