Rome: Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdallah Bou Habib has emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire and the deployment of additional Lebanese troops south of the Litani River during his speech at the 10th Rome MED Mediterranean Dialogues Conference.

According to National News Agency – Lebanon, Bou Habib highlighted the geographical and historical ties between Europe and the Middle East, stressing the opportunity for cooperation in the globalized world. He underscored Lebanon’s position as a bridge between civilizations and expressed the country’s gratitude for the European contribution to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). He condemned the recent attacks on UNIFIL, particularly the Italian contingent, and called for respect for the safety of the troops.

Bou Habib articulated Lebanon’s reliance on the UN and international support to address its multifaceted challenges, including military, economic, political, and social issues. He called for international assistance to build strong Lebanes
e military and security institutions and emphasized the importance of implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1701 fully. This resolution aims to ensure that only the Lebanese government has authority and control over weapons within its territory.

The Foreign Minister reiterated Lebanon’s commitment to peace and security, advocating for the return of displaced individuals to their homes. He also emphasized that lasting peace along the Lebanese-Israeli border requires the end of Israeli occupation of Lebanese territories to prevent future conflicts.

In conclusion, Bou Habib invited European nations to reinforce their historic partnership with Lebanon, aiming to create a Mediterranean region characterized by peace, justice, and prosperity. He urged cooperation to overcome regional instability and conflicts.