Lebanese president calls for balanced ties with Syria, free from interference

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said his country seeks to build relations with Damascus based on non-interference in each other's internal affairs, emphasizing the importance of moving beyond past interventions that, in his view, destabilized not only Syria and Lebanon but the wider region.

Aoun stated that ties with Syria should be established on the foundations they always should have had, away from any interference that could negatively impact both countries.

Reconstruction and Hezbollah's arms

On the issue of reconstruction, the Lebanese president noted that the program will be managed solely by the state, stressing his rejection of any external involvement in the process.

Regarding Hezbollah's weapons, Aoun said disarmament would be possible if occupation ends and the Lebanese army assumes full control over national territory.