The French Embassy issued a statement from the Élysée Palace, stating:
"President Emmanuel Macron will travel to Lebanon on Friday, January 17, 2025, for an official visit.
Through this visit, the President reaffirms France's steadfast commitment to supporting Lebanon’s sovereignty and unity. He will congratulate President Joseph Aoun on his recent election and Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam.
In these historic times for Lebanon, the President will extend his best wishes for their success in their mission: forming a strong government as soon as possible, capable of uniting Lebanon in its diversity to implement the necessary reforms for the country's recovery, restore prosperity for all Lebanese men and women, and reestablish security and sovereignty across its entire territory. The goal today is to meet the aspirations of the Lebanese people, whom France has supported under all circumstances.
This visit will also address the full implementation of the ceasefire announced by President Macron and President Joe Biden on November 26 and reaffirm France's commitment to this through UNIFIL and the verification mechanism. Following the October 24 conference and the President's discussions with Lebanon's key partners, the visit will focus on Lebanon's challenges in strengthening its armed forces and internal security forces to enhance its sovereignty. It will also address the humanitarian and reconstruction efforts essential for the country's revival.
Jean-Yves Le Drian, the President’s personal representative to Lebanon, will also participate in this trip. Since June 2023, he has been facilitating dialogue among Lebanon’s political factions to break the institutional deadlock.
This visit reflects France's ongoing commitment to Lebanon’s stability, unity, and development, underscoring the historic partnership and friendship between the two countries. It continues the President's efforts for Lebanon, following his visits in August and September 2020."
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