Lebanon and Syria discuss security cooperation, combating cross-border crime, and the return of displaced persons

Beirut, Aug 5 (KUNA) -- Lebanese Minister of Interior and Municipalities Ahmad al-Hajjar held talks today, Wednesday, with Major General Milhem al-Shantout, the Syrian Deputy Minister of Interior for Security Affairs, to explore ways to develop bilateral relations and security coordination between the two countries and to combat cross-border crimes.

The Lebanese Ministry of Interior said in a statement that the meeting addressed activating direct communication channels and exchanging information to address security challenges and combat terrorism, as well as continuing to implement the plan for the return of Syrian displaced persons to their country in accordance with established frameworks.

The statement added that the two sides, with the participation of representatives from Lebanon’s Internal Security Forces and Public Security, discussed cooperation mechanisms at border crossings to curb smuggling of drugs, weapons, and people, emphasizing the need to intensify field coordination to combat these crimes.

It clarified that both parties agreed to hold periodic meetings to monitor the implementation of understandings and translate them into practical steps serving the common interests of the two countries. (End) F.Z.