Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam concluded a short but significant visit to Paris this week, where he met with French President Emmanuel Macron for a working lunch focused on Lebanon’s internal situation and regional developments.
Contrary to earlier reports suggesting that Macron had summoned Salam to the Elysee, diplomatic sources clarified that the visit had been scheduled last month, prior to a cancelled French-hosted summit initially planned for June 17–18. This was the PM's first visit to France since his appointment to his post earlier this year.
The discussions touched on Lebanon’s political and economic challenges, as well as broader issues including Syria, the war in Gaza, and tensions with Iran.
Speaking to a small group of journalists at the Lebanese Embassy in Paris, Salam emphasized that Lebanon remains insulated from regional instability, referencing recent unrest in Syria’s Sweida province.
He credited local mediation efforts by political and religious figures, notably Druze leader Walid Jumblatt, with helping maintain internal calm.
On the future of the UN peacekeeping mission (UNIFIL) in southern Lebanon, Salam dismissed fears of its withdrawal amid reports of US and Israeli pressure.
While acknowledging concerns over potential US funding cuts to the peacekeeping operations, he said these are unlikely to threaten UNIFIL’s presence.
Salam affirmed Lebanon’s continued need for the force until the Lebanese Army is sufficiently supported, and highlighted France’s historical leadership role in shaping UNIFIL’s mandate.
He also addressed criticism of the armistice monitoring committee - of which France is a member - noting that while its performance may fall short of Lebanese expectations, it remains active as part of a broader Franco-American coordination.
Turning to the issue of Syrian refugees in Lebanon, Salam offered an optimistic outlook. He stated that his government had achieved tangible progress in cooperation with the UNHCR and Syrian authorities, aiming for the safe and dignified return of displaced Syrians.
According to Salam, over 120,000 refugees have returned since the beginning of the year, and many have been removed from both Lebanese and UNHCR records. He downplayed recent reports of a new influx from Syria, estimating the numbers at no more than 60,000.
Salam also revealed that Macron expressed support for Lebanon’s reform efforts, including financial reforms. However, he noted that France has not yet set a date for a proposed economic aid conference, pending concrete reform steps.
Upon returning to Beirut, Salam thanked France for its continued support for Lebanon’s security, sovereignty, and prosperity, and reaffirmed Macron’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties across security, economic, and cultural sectors.
