Rome, Aug. 21 (SANA) Lebanese President Joseph Aoun met on Friday with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Rome to discuss the latest regional developments, particularly in Lebanon, amid continued Israeli attacks on Lebanese territory, the Lebanese presidency said.
Aoun stressed the need to pressure Israel to implement the framework agreement reached during Lebanese-US-Israeli negotiations in Washington, according to a statement from the presidency. The two leaders also discussed the post-UNIFIL phase and ways to strengthen bilateral relations.
Aoun expressed gratitude to Meloni for Italy’s support for Lebanon across various levels, for hosting the trilateral negotiations, and for Italy’s role in stabilizing southern Lebanon.
Italy has hosted the last two rounds of negotiations between Lebanon and Israel, which began in April and have included seven rounds to date, five in Washington and two in Rome.
The two leaders also discussed the post-UNIFIL phase, following the expiration of the UN peacekeeping force’s mandate in south Lebanon at the end of the year, with its withdrawal expected to be completed during 2027. Lebanon insists on maintaining an international presence to help monitor the situation in the south.
Earlier Friday, Aoun met with Italian President Sergio Mattarella to discuss regional developments and ways to enhance bilateral relations between Lebanon and Italy.
Kh.A / H.H
