NNA - Kataeb Leader Samy Gemayel and Opposition MPs met French Senator for Overseas Residents, Olivier Cadic at Gemayel's office in Bikfaya.
The Opposition MPs included Michel Moawad, Neemat Frem, Nadim Gemayel, Elias Hankach, Selim Sayegh, Ghassan Hasbani, and Bilal Hocheimi.
Talks focused on a comprehensive overview of regional developments, pointing out the implications of escalating tensions on the southern front and the mutual threats between Hezbollah and Israel on Lebanon's situation, as well as ongoing negotiations for de-escalation.
Gemayel thanked his guest for his efforts and said after the meeting: "We were honored by the visit of our French friend, Senator Olivier Cadic. He is a lover of Lebanon, dedicated to its interests, and one of the French people who defend the country's interests in all forums. We wish him a fruitful tour and hope he will relay his observations to the French Senate."
For his part, Cadic stated: "It was a valuable opportunity to exchange views with you and several MPs from different political blocs who shared their perspectives on the situation in Lebanon."
"I returned after an 18-month absence to find that no progress has been made. A president has not been elected, nor has a government been formed. The security of the Lebanese people is at risk due to Hezbollah's unilateral decision to initiate a new confrontation with Israel. This threatens not only the safety of the Lebanese but also many of our French citizens living in Lebanon. Therefore, I decided to return and assess the extent of the danger Lebanon is facing," he added.
"My concern stems from the ongoing external influence on Lebanon, which is no longer as free or independent as it should be. I am also worried about the 700 French soldiers in the international peacekeeping forces in the south, stationed at the border. I want to remind those who are fueling the conflict that the French soldiers came for peace, not to be part of a conflict that the Lebanese did not decide on," Cadic concluded. -- Kataeb.org
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