The negotiation option may not be the safest, but it secures Lebanon’s interests

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun confirmed today, Wednesday, that the negotiation option may not be the safest, but it is currently the only one to reach the results and goals that we all “desire.”

Aoun said, during his meeting today with the delegation of the “Orthodox Meeting” headed by its Secretary-General Marwan Abu Fadel, that “the framework formula has begun to have its effects, and Washington is now listening to us, and the Lebanon file is on the table of US President Donald Trump.”

President Aoun called on everyone “to read the provisions of the framework formula as it is, and not as it is being promoted by some for personal purposes,” noting that it “secures Lebanon’s interests and falls within the category of goals that the Lebanese agree upon.”

He added, “It is my duty as president to make every attempt to save my country and my people, and I cannot stand by and watch the destruction of the country and the killing of citizens, or let anyone negotiate on behalf of the Lebanese state, which enjoys its sovereignty.”

He pointed out that “the security situation is still good in the country, despite all the harsh circumstances, and there is no fear of strife, or of the cohesion of the Lebanese army and security forces, and the military institution is performing all its duties to the fullest.”

The President of the Republic “strongly criticized the accusations directed by some against the army,” considering that they “contribute to undermining the country’s security, steadfastness, and safety.”

President Aoun stressed that “the right to disagree is sacred, but disagreement is not permitted, and the highest national interest must always be maintained.”

He said, “We have no choice but dialogue. Hatred does not build institutions or the state. Rather, it destroys society from within, while dialogue ultimately leads to solutions and common points.”

He added, “What we are doing to confront the war has no alternative after we have tried everything, including the war, which only led to tragedies, destruction, and displacement.”