Jaber Discusses Army Support with French Ambassador

Minister of Finance Yassine Jaber received French Ambassador to Lebanon Patrick Durel, accompanied by Jean-Baptiste Chauvel, Head of the Regional Economic Section, in the presence of General Financial Director Georges Meraoui and Economic Advisor Zina Qasim. The meeting reviewed the situation in Lebanon and a range of issues of mutual interest.

The discussion addressed developments in the south, particularly in light of the path related to ending UNIFIL’s mandate, with emphasis on the importance of a gradual transition to avoid any vacuum in the south and allow the Lebanese Army to strengthen its presence and capabilities to assume responsibilities and fill the gap—necessitating continued support and empowerment of the army to fulfill its duties.

The meeting also touched on the energy crisis and the impact of the global oil crisis on Lebanon, stressing the need to advance reforms across all levels in the energy sector, given the heavy burdens this sector has placed on the general budget, and the importance of placing it on a more financially and economically sustainable path.

In financial and economic matters, Jaber presented the government’s reform agenda and efforts to advance required files, particularly the pursuit of an agreement with the International Monetary Fund, affirming "the importance of continuing French support for Lebanon at this stage, as well as for the reform process and the restoration of financial and economic stability."

Jaber thanked France for "the role it plays in supporting Lebanon, whether in backing the Lebanese Army or accompanying the reform path," and commended its contribution of 75 million euros to the World Bank’s fund established to support reconstruction, calling it "a significant contribution in helping Lebanon confront the repercussions of this phase and restore its capacity to recover."

Both sides emphasized the importance of continuing coordination and cooperation between Lebanon and France and supporting efforts aimed at enhancing stability, advancing reforms, and rebuilding.