Macron visits Lebanon to support its new leadership amid recovery from war and economic crisis. He met with President Joseph Aoun and PM Nawaf Salam, emphasizing reforms and stability. The visit reinforces France’s commitment to Lebanon’s reconstruction and governance.
French President Aims to Reinforce Support for Lebanon’s New Leadership
French President Emmanuel Macron visited Beirut on Friday, marking his first trip to Lebanon in over four years. The visit comes as the nation recovers from a 14-month conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, as well as a protracted economic crisis.
Macron’s agenda included meetings with Lebanon’s newly elected President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam. Aoun’s election ended a two-year deadlock over the presidency, while Salam’s nomination brought hopes for improved governance. Macron’s visit also follows a 60-day ceasefire agreement, brokered with French involvement, which aims to bring stability to the region.
International Support and Reconstruction Take Center Stage
Lebanon is seeking to rebuild after the devastating war, which claimed over 4,000 lives and left thousands more injured. Macron met with caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati, who highlighted the need for sustained international support. The October international conference in Paris secured $1 billion in pledges for humanitarian and military aid, a critical step toward recovery.
During his visit, Macron engaged with US and French officers from the ceasefire monitoring committee and is expected to tour southern Lebanon, where French peacekeepers are stationed. The ceasefire, effective since November 27, provides an opportunity to stabilize the region and rebuild international confidence in Lebanon’s leadership.
Pushing for Reforms Amid Political Challenges
Macron has long criticized Lebanon’s political establishment for mismanagement and corruption, which have fueled the nation’s economic collapse. Since 2019, Lebanon has faced a crisis ranked among the worst globally by the World Bank. Despite persistent calls for reform, meaningful progress has been limited.
President Aoun and Prime Minister Salam have vowed to implement reforms to address the economic crisis and reduce Hezbollah’s influence in the country. Macron reiterated his support for these efforts, stating his commitment to Lebanon’s long-term recovery.
However, challenges remain. When asked if France could ensure Israel’s withdrawal from Lebanese territories during the ceasefire, Mikati noted that discussions are ongoing with US officials.
Macron’s visit highlights France’s enduring commitment to Lebanon’s stability and development, even as the country navigates significant political and economic hurdles.