Kuwait City: In an exclusive interview with KUNA, President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon emphasized that the Lebanese consensus is that weapons should be under state control. He reiterated that the people of Lebanon are not seeking conflicts and that dialogue and diplomacy are the pathways to restore sovereignty.
According to Kuwait News Agency, President Aoun stressed the importance of dialogue in resolving the weapons issue, advocating for a gradual approach that prioritizes domestic peace. He asserted that adhering to the constitution and engaging in discussions over contentious issues would prevent major internal disputes. Aoun highlighted that ongoing reforms are aimed at enhancing living conditions and improving Lebanon's relations with other countries, particularly Arab and Gulf nations.
During his visit to Kuwait, where he was welcomed by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, President Aoun expressed gratitude for Kuwait's long-standing support for Lebanon, dating back to initiatives before the Taif Agreement. Aoun's diplomatic efforts include strengthening bilateral relations and ensuring internal unity within Lebanon and its Arab neighbors.
Aoun's regional tour, which has included visits to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, and now Kuwait, aims to reintegrate Lebanon into the Arab fold. He emphasized Lebanon's role as a peaceful and neutral mediator in the region, advocating for dialogue and coexistence. Aoun underscored the importance of economic collaboration, recognizing Kuwait's historic contributions to Lebanon's development, from infrastructure projects to humanitarian aid following the 2020 Beirut port explosion.
President Aoun highlighted the need for foreign investment, which hinges on implementing multiple reforms, including judicial independence and economic restructuring, aligning with International Monetary Fund (IMF) conditions. Looking ahead to the Arab Summit and the Arab Economic and Social Summit in Baghdad, Aoun called for united Arab positions on the Palestinian cause.
In conclusion, Aoun invited Kuwaitis to invest in Lebanon, celebrating the enduring bonds between the two nations since the early 20th century.