Egypt to participate in international ministerial conference to support Lebanon in Paris

CAIRO – 22 October 2024: Egypt will take part in the International Ministerial Conference aimed at supporting the people and sovereignty of Lebanon, scheduled to take place in Paris on Thursday. The conference is initiated by French President Emmanuel Macron.

According to French diplomatic sources, the event will host delegations from 70 countries and organizations, including the United Nations, European Union, and various international and regional organizations, alongside civil society groups. French President Macron and Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati will open the conference.

Numerous foreign ministers, deputy ministers, and ambassadors are expected to represent their countries at this significant event. The conference was prompted by President Macron after Jean-Noël Barrot, French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, visited the Middle East. Lebanon, a close ally of France, is at the heart of this initiative.

The primary goal of the conference is to mobilize international efforts to address the needs of the Lebanese population, focusing on emergency protection and relief amid the ongoing political and humanitarian crises. Additionally, discussions will cover ways to support Lebanese institutions, particularly the Lebanese Armed Forces, to ensure the country's internal stability and sovereignty. A final statement is expected at the end of the conference.

The conference will also emphasize the need for a ceasefire and a diplomatic resolution based on UN Security Council Resolution 1701, facilitating the safe return of displaced individuals in Lebanon and Israel to their homes. A Lebanese government delegation, including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, will attend the conference.

Regarding the ceasefire initiative launched by Presidents Macron and US President Joe Biden during the United Nations General Assembly in New York last September, the sources confirmed that the proposal remains on the table. Diplomatic efforts are ongoing, driven by President Macron’s engagements and meetings.

The sources also highlighted France's continued diplomatic efforts, along with partners such as Egypt, to resolve Lebanon's presidential vacancy crisis. France's special envoy to Lebanon, Jean-Yves Le Drian, visited Beirut last month and is actively maintaining contact with international and regional partners, as well as the Five-Party Group that includes France and Egypt.

Electing a president in Lebanon is considered the first step towards restoring the country's public institutions, with Paris fully supporting these efforts.