Lebanon’s Aoun invited to meet Trump in Washington on July 21

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has received an invitation to visit Washington on July 21 for talks with US President Donald Trump, according to a senior Lebanese source. US Ambassador to Lebanon Michel Issa is expected to formally present the invitation to Aoun in Beirut on Thursday. The visit marks a renewed effort to strengthen bilateral cooperation on security and diplomatic challenges facing the region.

Agenda to cover framework agreement

The agenda is expected to focus on implementation of the US-mediated framework agreement signed by Lebanon and Israel on June 26, which provides for a phased Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory, the source said. Discussions will also address Lebanon’s position on regional developments and the strengthening of ties between Beirut and Washington. The meeting comes as the Lebanese Health Ministry reported that Israeli attacks have killed 4,320 people and injured 12,203 others since March 2.

Embassy confirms partnership

The Lebanese Embassy in Washington confirmed Wednesday that the White House had officially extended the invitation to Aoun for the July 21 summit. The embassy stated that the invitation reflects the strong partnership between Lebanon and the US and provides an opportunity for the two presidents to discuss issues of common interest. The talks will include bilateral relations, regional security and continued US support for Lebanon’s sovereignty, stability, territorial integrity and state institutions, it added.

Diplomatic preparations

The visit follows intensive diplomatic efforts by Lebanon’s mission in Washington conducted in close coordination with the Lebanese presidency and senior US administration officials over recent weeks. The embassy said arrangements for the official visit were facilitated to strengthen high-level bilateral dialogue between the two nations and address pressing matters of mutual concern.