Beirut: Kataeb Party leader MP Samy Gemayel engaged in significant discussions with French Ambassador to Lebanon Herv© Magro on Wednesday, focusing on Lebanon’s political and security landscape. The discussions highlighted the upcoming municipal elections, the ceasefire agreement, and concerns over the prolonged presence of displaced Syrians in Lebanon.

According to National News Agency – Lebanon, the meeting took place at the Kataeb’s headquarters in Saifi and included the participation of MP Nadim Gemayel, Political Bureau member Joelle Bou Abboud, and Marwan Abdallah, Head of the Kataeb Party’s Foreign Affairs Department. The dialogue underscored the importance of the municipal elections as a critical step to restoring democratic life in Lebanon. These elections are seen as an opportunity for Lebanese citizens to actively participate in decision-making and rebuild trust in democratic institutions after years of political stagnation.

A significant portion of the talks was dedicated to the ceasefire agreement, with discussions emphasizing the necessity for all weapons to be placed under the exclusive control of the Lebanese State and its official security agencies. Gemayel asserted that disarmament should encompass all armed groups without exception, a principle that is foundational to the Kataeb Party’s stance. He stressed that the rapid implementation of this measure is essential for Lebanon to fully reestablish its sovereignty across its entire territory.

The issue of displaced Syrians residing in Lebanon was also a focal point, especially in light of the anticipated visit by Syrian President Ahmad Sharaa to France for talks with French President Emmanuel Macron. Gemayel advocated for this issue to be a priority in the upcoming high-level discussions, urging the establishment of a clear framework to manage the status of Syrians in Lebanon and facilitate their prompt return to Syria. He cautioned that failure to address this issue would exacerbate the socioeconomic burdens facing Lebanon.