Beirut, April 17 (SANA) – Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said Friday that the ceasefire achieved between Lebanon and Israel was the result of intensive national and international efforts, as well as the sacrifices and steadfastness of the Lebanese people.
In a message addressed to the Lebanese people, Aoun said the state has regained its sovereign decision and is no longer a “card” in the calculations of external powers.
He stressed that the ongoing agreements aim to protect Lebanese sovereignty, stop bloodshed and place Lebanon’s national interest above all considerations.
Aoun said turning to negotiations was not an act of weakness or concession, but a decision stemming from faith in Lebanon’s rights and a desire to protect the people and the country.
He added that Lebanon is entering a new phase, moving from a ceasefire toward lasting agreements that preserve the rights of the people, national sovereignty and territorial unity.
“We have regained Lebanon’s decision for the first time in nearly half a century. Today, we negotiate and decide for ourselves, and we will not be an arena for the wars of others,” Aoun said.
He also affirmed readiness to assume full responsibility for national choices and to go as far as necessary to liberate occupied land, extend state authority and secure the withdrawal of Israeli occupation forces.
Earlier Friday, Aoun said Lebanon’s objective in talks with Israel is to consolidate the ceasefire, secure the withdrawal of Israeli forces from occupied southern territories, recover detainees and resolve disputes over several border points.
Kh.A
