The meeting between Lebanese President General Joseph Aoun and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio concluded in Washington.
During the meeting, President Aoun emphasized the importance of aligning Lebanese and American stances on implementing the trilateral framework, specifically achieving the first Israeli withdrawal from the initial model region. He also stressed the need for enhanced US support for the Lebanese army and military institutions, along with steps necessary to strengthen US interest in Lebanon’s economic and investment sectors, particularly in energy, telecommunications, and transportation.
Secretary Rubio expressed support for President Aoun’s positions and actions to restore Lebanese sovereignty across its entire territory and to implement the trilateral agreement, aiming to revive Lebanon’s role through economic prosperity and state sovereignty. He noted that “Lebanon cannot be an addendum to any other negotiation path, and Lebanese sovereignty must be a decision by Lebanese constitutional institutions.”
The US Department of State released a statement post-meeting indicating: “Secretary of State Marco Rubio met today with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. Both sides discussed the implementation of the trilateral framework. The Secretary commended the brave efforts of the Lebanese government, led by President Aoun, to restore Lebanon’s sovereignty, disarm Hezbollah, dismantle its terrorist infrastructure, and move towards peace.
The Secretary reaffirmed the United States' commitment to supporting the successful implementation of the trilateral framework and backing the Lebanese government’s efforts to achieve peace, economic recovery, and a better future for the Lebanese people.”
US Ambassador to Lebanon Michelle Issa noted in a televised interview that the meeting between President Aoun and Rubio was successful.
According to MTV sources, the meeting lasted about an hour and a half, covering agreements and preparations for the anticipated meeting between Aoun and US President Donald Trump.
President Aoun arrived at the US Department of State headquarters in the afternoon, marking the start of his official engagements in Washington.
Information suggests that President Aoun will hold a meeting Monday morning at the Lebanese Embassy with directors of major political research centers (Think Tanks) in Washington, followed by an evening dinner hosted by the embassy, gathering Lebanese, Arab, and American businesspeople, politicians, and diplomats.
President Aoun’s visit will conclude with an expected meeting with US President Donald Trump on Tuesday.
President Aoun will also engage in multiple meetings with US Senate members and other American administration officials.
President Aoun and First Lady Neemat Aoun arrived in Washington the previous evening at Andrews Air Force Base.