Lebanon’s newly elected President, Joseph Aoun, has received a series of congratulatory messages following his election, signalling strong international support for his leadership.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced he had a “warm and constructive call” with the new President, congratulating him on his election.
He also extended an invitation to President Aoun for an official visit to Greece, emphasising a desire to strengthen bilateral ties between the two nations.
Had a warm and constructive call with the newly elected President of Lebanon, General Joseph Aoun. I congratulated him on his election and reaffirmed Greece’s commitment to supporting Lebanon. I also extended an invitation to him to visit Greece in the near future.
— Prime Minister GR (@PrimeministerGR) January 14, 2025
Joseph Aoun was elected by Lebanon’s parliament on the 13th attempt, securing 99 out of 128 votes, effectively ending a more than two-year vacancy in the presidency. His election brings increased optimism, particularly regarding the stability of Lebanon.
Aoun’s election, which followed the departure of former President Michel Aoun in October 2022, was supported by international powers including Saudi Arabia, France and the United States, all of which had positive relations with him during his tenure as head of Lebanon’s armed forces.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres described the election as “a critical step towards overcoming Lebanon’s political and institutional impasse.” At the same time, US President Joe Biden praised Aoun as “the right leader for this time.”