Lebanon Announces Readiness to Delimit Borders with Syria

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun announced that his country is ready to begin the process of delimiting its borders with Syria, noting that the issue of the Shebaa Farms could be addressed at a later stage.

In response to a question during his meeting with a media delegation, Aoun stated that France had provided Lebanon with maps related to the border with Syria. He confirmed that the Lebanese committee responsible for the task is ready to begin as soon as the Syrian side decides to start the delimitation. He added, “A maritime delimitation committee can be established, as well as a land delimitation committee.”

The Lebanese president pointed out that relations with Syria are developing slowly but in a positive direction, expressing hope for further progress in the coming phase.

Regarding negotiations with Israel, Aoun explained that Lebanon is facing an occupation of Lebanese land and continuous targeting, in addition to the presence of Lebanese prisoners. He considered that negotiation remains one of the options available in such cases. He added that negotiations are typically pursued after reaching a deadlock in military confrontations.

Aoun also announced the appointment of Ambassador Simon Karam as head of the Lebanese delegation to the “Mechanism Committee,” explaining that his selection was based on his diplomatic expertise, especially his participation in the Madrid negotiations in the past.

On the statements made by U.S. envoy Tom Brack, the Lebanese president confirmed that they are rejected by all Lebanese people.

Regarding the maritime border delimitation with Cyprus, Aoun clarified that the government of Najib Mikati in 2011 established the rules for delimitation, and what followed was only the confirmation of these rules. He pointed out that the Legislative and Consultative Body considered that the treaty does not need to be presented to the Parliament.

Aoun touched on recent diplomatic developments, considering the visit of the Pope of the Vatican after his election, the visit of members of the Security Council, and the appointment of a civilian to the “Mechanism Committee” as positive indicators.

Regarding relations with Libya, the Lebanese president emphasized the need to resolve the case of the disappearance of Imam Musa Sadr and his companions, affirming the right of the Lebanese people to know their fate.

He also mentioned the continuation of U.S. aid programs to the Lebanese Army, noting that the issuance of an official decision confirming the need to support the army is a positive step.

Aoun denied the accuracy of claims made by some members of “Hezbollah” regarding his commitment to a defense strategy before his election as president, calling for the publication of any signed document on this matter if it exists.