Lebanese Defense Minister visits Serbia for Non-Aligned Movement conference

Lebanese Defense Minister Michel Menassa visited Belgrade to represent the President of Lebanon at the 65th anniversary conference of the Non-Aligned Movement. During his visit, Menassa held high-level meetings with Serbian officials, including Prime Minister Djutjo Matsoot and Defense Minister Bratislav Gašić.

Discussions focused on strengthening bilateral defense cooperation and addressing regional security. Serbian Defense Minister Gašić expressed appreciation for Lebanon’s stance on Serbia’s territorial integrity and its non-recognition of Kosovo’s independence. He also highlighted Serbia’s involvement in UN peacekeeping operations, specifically noting the importance of the UN mission in Lebanon.

Menassa emphasized the need for continued international support for the Lebanese Army and discussed options for the period following the conclusion of UNIFIL’s current mandate at the end of the year. He also met with Patriarch Porfirije of the Serbian Orthodox Church to discuss interfaith dialogue and peace.