Lebanese President General Joseph Aoun addressed the American Task Force for Lebanon (ATFL) via video during a Washington dinner on Friday. He stated that Lebanon is firmly on the path to national recovery through legal reform and full state sovereignty.
“We have made measurable progress and are steadily building a lawful and just state,” Aoun told US policymakers and Lebanese-American leaders.
At the core of his message was the vision of a Lebanon where only the state possesses the right to bear arms.
“Our goal is a free, independent Lebanon where only the state holds the exclusive right to bear arms and defends itself from negative external influences,” he said.
While acknowledging the strain of the Syrian and Palestinian refugee crises, Aoun emphasized resilience and forward momentum. “Despite the severe challenges we face, we are on a clear path to recovery.”
He stressed on the importance of strengthening Lebanon’s security institutions and implementing a comprehensive national security strategy to stabilize the country and protect its sovereignty.
Aoun also reaffirmed the importance of US-Lebanon relations as a foundation of the country’s global engagement. “Our relationship with the United States is deeply rooted, and we firmly believe that strong US-Lebanon ties are essential to our international standing,” he said.
The president expressed deep appreciation to the ATFL for its advocacy and support during critical periods. He credited the group with securing bipartisan US backing for humanitarian and military aid, particularly in education, healthcare and military support.
“In conclusion, I extend my thanks to President Donald Trump and his administration, as well as to our friends in the US Congress, for their faith and support in Lebanon’s sovereignty and freedom,” Aoun stated.
He reiterated the strategic importance of Lebanon’s partnership with the United States. “We remain committed to building a new era of progress and cooperation based on our shared values of life, freedom and dignity,” he concluded.
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