Lebanon, Spain sign pacts, discuss post-UNIFIL cooperation

BEIRUT, Feb. 2 (Xinhua) -- Lebanon and Spain signed three memoranda of understanding on Monday covering diplomatic training, agriculture, and library cooperation, as the two countries agreed to deepen bilateral ties during Lebanese President Joseph Aoun's official visit to Madrid.

A statement released by the Lebanese Presidency read that the signing ceremony was held at Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's office following expanded talks between the two sides.

Aoun highlighted the strategic importance of Lebanon's partnership with Spain, especially in security and regional stability, and welcomed Spain's planned participation in an international conference to be held in Paris in March to support Lebanese security forces, read the statement.

Aoun also noted ongoing talks on maintaining Spanish military presence in southern Lebanon after the expected withdrawal of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) in 2027. He urged Spain and the EU to press Israel to stop violations in Lebanon and implement UN Security Council Resolution 1701.

On the economic front, Aoun called for enhanced trade, tourism, and direct flights between the two countries, read the statement.

For his part, Sanchez reaffirmed Spain's commitment to Lebanon's stability, and announced Spain will attend the Paris support conference at the ministerial level. He added that Spain's future military presence in southern Lebanon after UNIFIL's withdrawal will be studied with EU partners, read the statement.

Sanchez said the newly-signed memoranda of understanding will give bilateral ties renewed momentum, expressing Spain's intention to deepen economic cooperation with Lebanon. ■