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Qatar Tribune
12-06-2025
- Politics
- Qatar Tribune
Qatar, France support int'l conferenceas pathway to solving Palestine issue
They emphasised that the High-Level International Conference on the peaceful resolution of the question of Palestine and the implementation of the two-State solution—mandated by UNGA resolution A/RES/79/81—would contribute to this objective by outlining a credible roadmap for its implementation. This would enable the two states to coexist peacefully within their internationally recognised borders. Both ministers reiterated that the future Palestinian state would hold sole responsibility for the rule of law, including policing primacy. On Syria, the PM and the French minister acknowledged the historic transition process underway in Syria. They emphasised the importance of an inclusive political dispensation that protects the rights of all irrespective of ethnicity, sect, religion or gender. They reiterated their support for the reconstruction of a new Syria - free, stable and sovereign -- that respects all components of society. They agreed that stability and security in Syria is paramount for all its citizens as well as the surrounding region. To that end both Ministers committed to work together wherever possible to provide humanitarian assistance, as well as support economic development, and long-term reconstruction. They welcomed the lifting of international sanctions on Syria's economy and encouraged foreign investments in the country. Qatar welcomed French support for the recent EU decision to lift economic sanctions on Syria and the recent meeting between President Macron and Syria's interim President Ahmad Al Sharaa. On Lebanon, Qatar welcomed the hosting by France of the International Conference in Support of Lebanon's People and Sovereignty in October 2024. Progress to political and economic reform in Lebanon is welcomed by both countries. Qatar and France reaffirm their support for the territorial integrity and sovereign rights of the Lebanese people. Both ministers called on all parties to honour the commitments made under the ceasefire agreement reached in November 2024. In this regard, they urged the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory, the complete deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces, and continued support for efforts to maintain security and uphold the State's exclusive control over arms. These efforts are to be assisted by the UN interim force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and monitored through the supervision mechanism established under the November 2024 ceasefire agreement, in which France, alongside the United States, plays a participatory role. They emphasised their support to the process of change that has begun under the new Lebanese government, aimed at putting Lebanon back on the path of reconstruction, recovery and stability. They expressed their continuing support to the Lebanese Armed Forces and to the UNIFIL whose role is essential to guarantee the stability of South Lebanon. On Iran, both ministers reaffirmed Qatar and France's support for a diplomatic solution that leads to an agreement addressing and resolving all international concerns regarding Iran's nuclear activities, in exchange for sanctions relief. This, they noted, is vital for preserving the global non-proliferation framework as well as ensuring stability and de-escalation in the Gulf region. They reiterated their support for the ongoing talks between Iran and the US, and called on Iran to fully and effectively cooperate with the legitimate requests and activities of the International Atomic Energy Agency. On Rwanda and eastern DRC, the PM and the French minister emphasised their shared commitment to peace, stability and security in the Great Lakes region. France commended Qatar's mediation efforts between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo and between Congolese authorities and AFC/M23. They stressed the need for parties to continue working towards the conclusion of a ceasefire, as called upon by UN Security Council Resolution 2773 (2025). Following its participation, along with the U.S., DRC, Rwanda and Togo, to the Doha meeting on April 30, France recalled its continued support to Qatar's peace efforts. On Sudan, both ministers resolved to further work together to address the devastating conflict in Sudan. Qatar and France recalled the UN Security Council Resolution 2736 (2024) demanding that the Rapid Support Forces halt the siege of El Fasher and calling for an immediate de-escalation. They reaffirmed their support to the unity of the country and called on the warring parties to immediately cease hostilities, abide by their obligations under international humanitarian law, protect civilians, and guarantee full, safe and unhindered humanitarian access. On economy, trade and investments, Qatar and France emphasized the importance of their growing economic, trade and investment partnership, with a total trade of more than €1.3 billion in 2024. The Ministers highlighted that bilateral trade makes a significant contribution to supporting jobs, innovation, and economic development in both countries. The two ministers reviewed progress on Qatar's 2024 landmark engagement to invest 10 billion euros into key sectors of the French economy. Qatar's investment will cover mutually beneficial sectors ranging from food security, digital economy, AI and IT, semiconductors, energy transition, space, Intellectual Property, health, tourism and hospitality and culture. They also welcomed the forthcoming Qatar-France Business Forum as an opportunity for mutual trade growth and investment. They discussed ways to further strengthen their investment partnership and underlined their willingness to facilitate cooperation between the Qatari and French private sectors. They also explored areas of common interest, such as fiscal policy, sustainable finance and public-private partnerships (PPPs). Qatar's innovative investment in France's semiconductor industry highlights its role in key technology subsectors, including supply chain developments that are also propelling digital and green transformations across vital industries such as AI, mobility, and consumer technology. Both sides discussed ways to further develop their trade and investment partnership, through a Roadmap focused on strategic areas in alignment with the framework of the economic diversification goals stated by Qatar's National Vision 2030 and in accordance with the economic plan 'France 2030.' The French minister praised Qatar's ongoing commitment to ensure continued and reliable supplies of energy to Europe, including France and thus contributing to the country's energy security. Qatar and France reaffirmed the importance of the defence and security as a foundation stone of their was illustrated by the increase in official-level visits in the last 12 months, and the deepening coordination on an operational level. The ministers welcomed the implementation of joint defence operational partnership including joint planning, training and military exercises -- most recently the Pegase, Al Salam, and Al Koot exercises -- as well as joint projects in defence industries and innovation and ongoing defence acquisitions including cooperation through both nations' air forces, facilitated by the common possession of Rafale combat aircrafts. They praised the strategic convergences between Qatar and France, which contribute to enhancing bilateral interactions between the two military institutions. Qatar and France are keen to explore ways to develop new synergies between their armed forces for future defence capabilities. They also explored ways to build on existing links and expand activities on common strategic interests particularly as they contribute to de-escalation and security in the Gulf and the Red Sea. Both Ministers welcomed the robust and long-lasting partnership between their respective security forces, including cooperation and important knowledge-sharing on Mega Sports Events, Crisis Management and Major Event Management, Air and Aviation Security, Cybersecurity and Digital Investigations, and mutual professionalization and capacity-building. They commended the strong friendship and mutual trust between the French Gendarmerie and Qatar's Internal Security Force, Lekhwiya, as they mark the 20th anniversary of their cooperation in 2025. They also welcomed the development of a strategic partnership between the French and Qatari national police forces, including the establishment of a High Police Committee. Both Ministers emphasised that the fight against terrorism remains a key bilateral realm for cooperation. They said that such cooperation is crucial in prevention and countering terrorism and ensuring the safety of their citizens. These efforts reflect the need for a coordinated approach to deal with an ever-evolving set of terrorist threats that transcend national borders. They also agreed to continue their strong partnership in cybersecurity and in combating terrorism.
MTV Lebanon
12-06-2025
- Politics
- MTV Lebanon
Defense Minister Backs UNIFIL, Condemns Attacks
Minister of National Defense Michel Menassa visited the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) headquarters in Naqoura, where he met with Force Commander General Aroldo Lázaro. The meeting, attended by officers from both UNIFIL and the Lebanese Armed Forces, addressed recurring tensions between peacekeepers and local residents in southern Lebanon. In an English-language address, Minister Menassa praised UNIFIL's steadfast presence since its 1978 deployment following extensive Israeli aggression that claimed 2,000 lives and caused widespread displacement and destruction. He underscored that UNIFIL has become part of the fabric of southern Lebanese society, sharing in both its trials and celebrations. Menassa urged the international community to renew UNIFIL's mandate under UN Security Council Resolution 1701 without amendments, calling it 'crucial for maintaining the stability and peace your mission has fostered over the years.' He emphasized the Lebanese state's unwavering commitment to full implementation of the resolution and pledged close coordination between the Lebanese Armed Forces and UNIFIL in securing the south, enabling the return of displaced communities, and promoting reconstruction. Highlighting the cost of peacekeeping, Menassa recalled casualties during major conflicts including in 1982, 1993, 1996, 2006, and the recent devastating war that ravaged southern Lebanon, parts of Beirut and the Bekaa. 'Through these immense challenges, you have remained steadfast … driven by moral integrity and humanitarian commitment,' he noted. The minister strongly condemned all aggression against UNIFIL personnel, stating that such acts 'serve only the enemy by obstructing the shared mission we all seek to uphold.' He also paid tribute to outgoing Commander Lázaro as his term approaches its end, commending his leadership in one of the world's most volatile theatres. 'On behalf of the South, of its people, and of Lebanon—thank you,' concluded Minister Menassa, expressing deep gratitude for UNIFIL's enduring solidarity with the Lebanese people.
LBCI
10-06-2025
- Politics
- LBCI
Lebanon and UNIFIL sign Memorandum of Understanding to support army needs
The National Defense Ministry, represented by Minister Michel Mnassa, and the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), represented by its commander, Major General Aroldo Lázaro, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the participation and support of the French government. A ceremony was held in Yarzeh in the presence of Army Commander Rodolph Haykal and First Counselor Bruno Barrera da Silva, representing the French Ambassador to Lebanon Hervé Magro. The memorandum aims to provide a donation designated to meet the needs of the Lebanese Armed Forces in the areas of fuel and food supplies. Minister Mnassa stressed the importance of UNIFIL's continued mission, expressing hope that its mandate would be renewed in August without any obstacles. He emphasized that "the presence of UNIFIL in Lebanon for decades has never been a temporary choice, but rather a permanent need and an urgent necessity, especially given the sensitive circumstances in the region and the repeated threats to Lebanese sovereignty." He added, "The generous donation we are signing today, designated to support the army's needs in fuel and nutrition, holds importance for two reasons: first, due to its vital nature in these difficult economic conditions."
MTV Lebanon
10-06-2025
- Politics
- MTV Lebanon
UNIFIL statement on patrol obstruction Hallusiyat al Tahta
The following is statement issued by UNIFIL: 'This morning, UNIFIL peacekeepers conducting a planned patrol coordinated with the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) were confronted by a group of individuals in civilian clothing in the vicinity of Hallusiyat al Tahta, in southern Lebanon. The group attempted to obstruct the patrol using aggressive means, including throwing stones at the peacekeepers. One peacekeeper was struck, fortunately, no injuries were reported. In response, UNIFIL personnel employed non-lethal measures to ensure the safety of both the patrol members and those present. The LAF was promptly informed and arrived on the scene shortly thereafter. The situation was quickly brought under control, and the patrol was able to proceed. Freedom of movement is a core requirement for the implementation of UNIFIL's mandate. This includes the ability to operate independently and impartially, as outlined in UN Security Council Resolution 1701. Any restriction on this freedom — while conducting operational activities with or without LAF — constitutes a violation of that resolution. It is unacceptable that UNIFIL peacekeepers continue to be targeted. UNIFIL calls on the Lebanese authorities to take all necessary measures to ensure that its peacekeepers can carry out their duties without obstruction or threat.'
MTV Lebanon
07-06-2025
- Politics
- MTV Lebanon
Paris calls on Israel to "withdraw from Lebanon as soon as possible"
France condemned on Friday the recent Israeli raids on Beirut's southern suburbs and called on Israel to "withdraw as quickly as possible from all Lebanese territory," according to a statement from the Foreign Ministry, as reported by Agence France-Presse. The French Foreign Ministry said: "Paris calls on all parties to respect the ceasefire agreement." It stressed that "France reaffirms that the monitoring mechanism under the ceasefire agreement is in place to help the parties confront threats and prevent any escalation that could harm the security and stability of Lebanon and Israel." The French Foreign Ministry affirmed that "the dismantling of unauthorized military positions on Lebanese territory is primarily the responsibility of the Lebanese Armed Forces, with support from the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL)."
