European Union's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, stressed that a ceasefire in the country must come first before Lebanon's presidential election.
After a conversation with Lebanese Parliament speaker Nabih Berri on Sunday and a meeting with Primer Minister Najib Mikati, Borrell emphasized that the Lebanese people need a president to restore the country's sovereignty, which has been undermined by both internal and external forces. Although he pointed out that a president is crucial, he said it must follow the immediate need for a ceasefire.
Lebanon's presidency has been vacant since Michel Aoun's term ended on October 31, 2022. Political paralysis, marked by a lack of clear parliamentary majorities, weak "consensus" presidents, and divided cabinets, has prevented a new president from being elected.
