Miqati from France: STL, Situation in South, Policy of Disassociation Ensure Lebanon's Stability

Prime Minister Najib Miqati stressed on Monday the need for France's support for Lebanon, while highlighting the strength of the historic ties between the two countries.

He said: “The situation in southern Lebanon, Special Tribunal for Lebanon, and the Lebanese government's policy of disassociation from the Syrian crisis will ensure Lebanon's stability.”

He made his remarks after meeting French Prime Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault at the beginning of his official trip to France.

Miqati also thanked France for its plan, set along with the government, to develop the Lebanese army's expertise and provide it with weapons.

In addition, the premier reiterated the government's commitment to staging the 2013 parliamentary elections on time.

The premier also requested the participation of French experts to aid Lebanon in assessing its economic situation given the developments in the region.

For his part, Ayrault praised Miqati's “efforts to protect Lebanon and avoid exposing it to dangers.”

He renewed his country's support for Lebanon and its constitutional institutions “in order for it to keep away from the ongoing Syrian conflict.”

The French premier also reiterated France's commitment to stability in southern Lebanon through his country's participation in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon.

Later in the day, Miqati met with the president of the National Assembly Claude Bartolone at the headquarter of the assembly in Paris.

“Bartolone saluted Miqati's work during these difficult regional conditions and appreciated Lebanon's policy of self-disassociation towards Syria's events,” said the statement released by Miqati's office after the PM's meeting.

"Bartolone stressed France's commitment in supporting Lebanon's independence and sovereignty,” the statement added.

Miqati is accompanied on his trip by Economy Minister Nicolas Nahhas, Information Minister Walid al-Daouq, and Youth and Sports Minister Faisal Karami.