President Aoun Reaffirms Lebanon's Independent Negotiating Position to Maronite Diaspora Delegation

President Joseph Aoun has underscored Lebanon's commitment to charting its own course in ongoing negotiations during a meeting with representatives from the Maronite Church abroad.

In remarks to the delegation of Maronite bishops from the diaspora, Aoun stressed that the country's negotiating strategy remains independent and self-determined. He affirmed that Lebanon stands in favor of ceasefire arrangements and welcomes assistance from any nation prepared to offer it, explicitly naming Iran among potential partners.

The president emphasized that the Lebanese state holds sole authority over diplomatic discussions and cannot be sidelined by external actors. He further clarified that any settlement reached must be negotiated through Lebanon's direct participation rather than at the nation's expense.

"The state of Lebanon conducts these negotiations as a sovereign entity making its own decisions," Aoun conveyed to the church delegation. "No one can occupy our position, and any resolution must be achieved with our involvement, not against our interests," he added, underscoring the principle that accords must benefit rather than compromise the country's standing.