President Michel Aoun stressed that the statement issued by the United Nations and the European Union jeopardizes Lebanon, since its aim it to indirectly resettle the Syrian refugees in Lebanon, adding that its content goes against Lebanon’s state sovereignty and laws.
The president expressed his objection to said statement, mainly the expressions included in it, such as “voluntary return”, “temporary return”, “the will to stay” and “integration in the labor market.”
In this context, Aoun emphasized that the only sustainable solution for the Syrian displacement crisis lies in their dignified and safe return to a number of possible regions in Syria, reiterating his respect to the principle of non-forced return.
“Lebanon is committed to a political solution in Syria, but the Syrian refugees’ return should not be linked to this solution. In accordance with my constitutional oath, I am committed to preserve Lebanon’s independence and the integrity of its territories; and the statement collides with the constitution,” he stated.
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