President Joseph Aoun outlines Lebanon’s negotiation framework and pushes for economic relief and market access

Lebanon 18-05-2026 | 17:11

President Joseph Aoun outlines Lebanon’s negotiation framework and pushes for economic relief and market access

President Joseph Aoun says Lebanon’s priorities include Israeli withdrawal, ceasefire, and army deployment, while also highlighting efforts to support farmers and address security developments in the south.

    President Joseph Aoun outlines Lebanon’s negotiation framework and pushes for economic relief and market access
    Joseph Aoun receives MP Michel Daher with a delegation from agricultural unions (Lebanese Presidency).
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    Lebanese President Joseph Aoun affirmed on Monday that “the framework set by Lebanon for the negotiations is represented by the Israeli withdrawal, a ceasefire, the deployment of the army on the border, the return of displaced persons, and economic or financial aid to Lebanon. Anything else being discussed is incorrect.”

     

    He also said during his meeting with MP Michel Daher and a delegation from agricultural unions: “It is my duty, from my position and responsibility, to do the impossible and to do what is least costly in order to stop the war on Lebanon and its people.”

     

    Joseph Aoun (archive).
    Joseph Aoun (archive).

     

    Aoun continued: “We have lived through wars and seen where they have led Lebanon. Is there anyone who can still bear their cost?”

     

    He added: “You are rooted in this land because you know its value. Preserve this bond and pass it on to your children, who are the country’s real wealth.

     

    He also said: “I will continue to work with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to open markets for Lebanese production, and to provide facilitations for farmers within Lebanon, so they can continue working under the difficult conditions the country is going through.”

     

    Meeting between Joseph Aoun and Antoine Habib (Lebanese Presidency).
    Meeting between Joseph Aoun and Antoine Habib (Lebanese Presidency).

     

     

    Meanwhile, Aoun met with the Chairman of the Board of Directors and Director General of the Housing Bank (Banque de l'Habitat), Antoine Habib, along with members of the board, who presented him with a commemorative gift marking the bank’s golden jubilee as a gesture of appreciation and loyalty for the support and trust he has given to the bank.

     

     

    Aoun also discussed with Minister of National Defense Major General Michel Menassa the security situation in the country and developments in the south, in light of the ongoing Israeli attacks.

     

    Joseph Aoun and Michel Menassa (Lebanese Presidency).
    Joseph Aoun and Michel Menassa (Lebanese Presidency).