European official: Lebanese state is the sole entity responsible for security and stability

Beirut, Oct 8 (KUNA) -- The European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, reaffirmed on Thursday the EU’s commitment to Lebanon’s sovereignty and stability, stressing that the Lebanese state must be the sole authority responsible for security and stability on its territory.

Speaking at a joint press conference with Lebanese Foreign Minister Youssef Rjie in Beirut, Kallas said the EU had completed planning for a mission to train and advise members of the Lebanese Armed Forces and Internal Security Forces, and she expected formal approval of its establishment next Monday.

She emphasized that the mission aims to strengthen the authority of the army and security forces, border security, and internal security, in line with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701. Kallas stressed that the mission would not replace the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and would not be limited to the south, noting that the future of the UN presence in the south remains “under discussion.”

She expressed the EU’s readiness to work with Lebanon, the UN, and the Security Council on the next phase, warning against any security vacuum following UNIFIL’s departure.

Kallas highlighted EU support for Lebanon, noting that approximately $565 million has been allocated until 2027 for economic recovery, security, and essential services, alongside more than $203 million provided since 2022 to support the Lebanese Armed Forces. She called for the implementation of economic and banking reforms to bolster international support and attract investments, reaffirming EU backing for the agreement on the south and the necessity of the state extending its control over its entire territory.

On a related note, Kallas welcomed Lebanese-Syrian cooperation and pointed to the burdens of hosting Syrian refugees. She explained that the return of Syrian refugees to their country requires reconstruction support, provision of essential services, and security, while confirming the EU’s continued support for Syria, refugees, and host communities.

For his part, Minister Rjie described the creation of the EU mission as an investment in state institutions, as it provides training and expertise to the army and internal security forces, thereby strengthening state authority, security, and the rule of law. He reaffirmed Lebanon’s decision to monopolize weapons and the use of force in the hands of the state, and its efforts to restore sovereignty, consolidate stability, and rebuild state institutions. He expressed Lebanon’s hope for EU support in implementing Resolution 1701 and ending the Israeli occupation of Lebanese territories.

Earlier on Thursday, Kallas met with Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, who warned against the expiration of UNIFIL’s mandate without finding a replacement under the UN umbrella. (End) A.Y.B. / M.A.K.