Beirut: President of the Republic, Joseph Aoun, said his visit to Turkey reflected the longstanding ties between Lebanon and Turkey and a shared determination to expand cooperation in ways that serve both peoples and contribute to regional stability.

According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Aoun emphasized the significance of his discussions with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, noting that his visit marked only the third time a Lebanese president had visited Turkey in the past 70 years. This statistic, he highlighted, underscored the necessity for more active and ambitious relations between the two nations, especially as the region undergoes transformative changes.

Aoun noted Erdogan's clear vision and genuine willingness to elevate bilateral relations to new heights, recognizing that Lebanon's stability is essential for the stability of the broader region. He expressed optimism that the visit would initiate a new phase of partnership, mutual trust, and joint action between Lebanon and Turkey.

Addressing the challenges Lebanon faces, Aoun spoke of the nation's suffering due to the Israeli war, which resulted in thousands of casualties, village destruction, family displacement, and severe economic damage. Despite these adversities, he affirmed Lebanon's unwavering commitment to maintaining its national dignity and sovereignty, rejecting any provocations or unilateral interference in its affairs.

Aoun highlighted the resilience of the Lebanese people, who remain determined to restore state sovereignty, rebuild the nation, and secure a stable future. He expressed gratitude to Turkey's government, leadership, and people for their support during Lebanon's most challenging times, including post-Beirut port explosion and throughout the recent conflict.

He also commended Turkey's ongoing support for the Lebanese Armed Forces and its active role in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, expressing hope that this commitment would continue.