Raji Discusses Lebanese-Canadian Relations and Negotiation Track

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants Youssef Raji met with Canadian Senate President Raymonde Gagné, discussing relations and conditions in Lebanon, the negotiation track between Lebanon and Israel, and the issue following the end of UNIFIL's mission.

Gagné praised the Lebanese community in Canada and its active role in Canadian society, renewing her country's support for Lebanon and inquiring about ways to provide additional support and stand by its side.

For his part, Raji thanked Canada for its continued support for Lebanon, stressing "the importance of continuing to support the Lebanese Army as the fundamental pillar that enables the state to establish stability." He called for "supporting the government in its efforts aimed at ending the Israeli occupation, stopping aggressions, and restricting weapons to the state," affirming that "Lebanon cannot enjoy prosperity and stability while armed groups outside the law exist."

Raji also held a meeting with ambassadors of the Arab League Council accredited in Ottawa, at the headquarters of the Lebanese Embassy.

The meeting began with a welcome speech by the Dean of the Arab Diplomatic Corps, Yemeni Ambassador Jamal Al-Sallal, who affirmed "his country's and the Arab states' support for Lebanon, strengthening its institutions, extending its authority over all its territories, restricting weapons to the state, and its exclusive monopoly on decisions of war and peace." He also stressed "solidarity with Lebanon in its efforts to enhance its role in the region."

For his part, Raji renewed "Lebanon's solidarity and condemnation of the unjustified attacks targeting Gulf states, Jordan, and Yemen," presenting the situation in Lebanon frankly and clearly. He affirmed that "Lebanon no longer wants to ally with anyone or antagonize anyone, that Lebanese people want to live in peace in a normal, prosperous, and stable country, and that Lebanon should regain its leading position in education and healthcare in the region." He considered that "this goal cannot be achieved as long as there is an armed organization outside the state's authority."

He paused at the framework agreement signed with Israel, clarifying that it "is not a final treaty, but a framework for future negotiations," stressing that "negotiations are the only solution to stop Israeli aggressions and achieve withdrawal."