Beirut: President of the Republic, Joseph Aoun, on Wednesday received Iran’s Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, Ali Larijani, and emphasized Lebanon’s desire to cooperate with the Islamic Republic of Iran based on mutual respect and within the limits of sovereignty and friendship.

According to National News Agency – Lebanon, Aoun stated that recent language used by certain Iranian officials was unhelpful, stressing that Lebanon seeks a friendship with Iran that encompasses all Lebanese, not just a single sect or political component. He affirmed that Lebanon is the final homeland for all its citizens, both Christians and Muslims, and that the state’s constitutional and security institutions are responsible for protecting all communities without discrimination.

The Lebanese President firmly rejected any form of interference in Lebanon’s internal affairs and called for maintaining national stability. He emphasized that Lebanon does not interfere in the affairs of other states, including Iran, and expects the same in return. Aoun warned that past attempts to leverage foreign alliances for internal advantage have proven costly, stating that no party has the right to bear arms or seek strength from abroad.

Aoun stressed the importance of security being the responsibility of the Lebanese state and armed forces, and that threats, whether from Israel or others, must be addressed collectively through national unity, which remains Lebanon’s strongest weapon.

For his part, Larijani conveyed Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi’s greetings and renewed the invitation for Aoun to visit Tehran, expressing Iran’s readiness to support Lebanon in reconstruction efforts. He emphasized Iran’s desire to deepen ties with both the Lebanese state and people, and praised Aoun’s leadership in promoting national unity.

Larijani denied any Iranian interference in Lebanese affairs, stating that his earlier remarks upon arrival in Beirut reflected the official position of the Islamic Republic. He reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to preserving strong and respectful ties with Lebanon, emphasizing that any assistance from Tehran would come only at the Lebanese government’s request.