Prime Minister Najib Mikati received on Friday morning at his residence the Italian Minister of Defense, Lorenzo Guerini, at the head of a delegation, in the presence of the Italian Ambassador Nicoletta Bombardiere.

During the meeting, Mikati reiterated her “gratitude to Italy for its constant support to Lebanon at all levels”. He also thanked Italy for its contribution within the framework of the “UNIFIL” peacekeeping forces operating in southern Lebanon and the sacrifices of its soldiers for the sake of ensuring stability and security in the south.

Mikati reaffirmed, once again, Lebanon’s commitment to UN Security Council Resolution 1701 and all other relevant international resolutions.

In turn, the Italian minister underlined that “Lebanon is of great importance for Italy, and the presence of Italy in the forces of the UNIFIL reinforces this direction”, stressing that “four Italian leaders took the command of these forces “.

He also stressed that “Italy supports the work of the Lebanese Prime Minister and the efforts made to carry out the necessary reforms to deal with the situation in Lebanon”.

Guerini continued to assure that “Lebanon can fully count on Italy for its support regarding negotiations with the International Monetary Fund and other relevant international institutions”.

“As for our support to the Lebanese army, it is full support, and we are committed to speeding up the procedures required to provide this support,” said the Italian official.

On the occasion of the glorious holiday season, Mikati also sent his warmest wishes to all Lebanese, and to Christian sects in particular, hoping that “the days to come will bring peace and security to all, and that determination and good intentions will combine to save Lebanon and all the Lebanese from the painful crises they are going through. “

“We are determined to overcome all obstacles to bring the government together and complete the steps we have started to put Lebanon on the path to recovery and rescue,” Mikati pledged.