French Ambassador to Lebanon Denis Pietton told An-Nahar newspaper in an interview published on Thursday that all parties should scale back their expectations on the outcome of the national dialogue sessions. However, it is always good for the Lebanese to meet and discuss their national defense strategy, he added.

Implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1701 and resolving the issue of Hezbollah’s arms are not easy, said Pietton, adding that it is important to give the Lebanese state control of all weapons in the country.

Pietton also said that Iranian-Syrian relations are strategic, calling for the two state to be aware of “their regional responsibilities.”

He reiterated that his country is willing to do everything possible to ensure stability and peace in the Middle East, adding that resolving the Palestinian-Israeli conflict is one of France’s top priorities.

The ambassador also said that a new war in the region is unlikely, and he does not believe any party intends to instigate conflict with the Jewish State. However, he warned against leaders’ tit-for-tat verbal threats and accusations. 

Pietton said a new war in the Middle East is unlikely, saying that he does not believe that any party intends to cause a conflict with Israel. He warned against the possible consequences of the verbal threats and exchange of accusations.
Pietton denied reports that his country decided to downsize its UNIFIL contingent working in South Lebanon. He also denied rumors that he requested to be transferred to Paris following his wife’s death in January’s Ethiopian airliner crash.

“[Leaving] is not a solution [to anything], whether on the personal or professional level.”

-NOW Lebanon

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