Beirut: Defense Minister Major General Michel Menassa, on Monday welcomed in his office at the Ministry, Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto, as part of his visit to Lebanon to inspect his country's contingent operating within the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). During the meeting, the discussion reportedly touched on the general situation in the country, particularly the situation in southern Lebanon.

According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the Italian Defense Minister affirmed his country's "firm commitment to supporting the Lebanese military institution, whether directly or through the Italian contingent operating within UNIFIL," considering this support "a fundamental step not only to strengthen the presence of legitimate forces in the south, but also to consolidate security and stability in the region as a whole." He also stressed that 'Italy will remain by the side of Lebanon and the security of the South, whether through UNIFIL or even after UNIFIL mission ends at the end of 2026, regardless of who will assume responsibilities later or the sources of funding, and under what banner, whether it be the banner of the United Nations, the European Union or the banner of the Italian Republic.'

Crosetto also expressed his country's determination to participate in the upcoming conference to support the Lebanese army, scheduled to be held next February in Paris, noting that 'Italy is currently participating in the ongoing preparations for this conference and considers its success to be one of its priorities."

For his part, Major General Menassa thanked Italy for its continued support to the Lebanese Army, particularly in logistical, medical and training fields, stressing 'Lebanon's appreciation for Italy's chairmanship of the Military Technical Committee for Lebanon (MTC4L), and the vital role it plays in this regard.'