BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 1. The European Union is planning a new mission to advise and train Lebanon’s armed forces as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s ability to provide security across its territory, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said.
Kallas stressed that the planned EU mission is not intended to replace the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). Instead, Brussels wants to invest in Lebanon’s own security capabilities.
“The EU is not seeking to replace UNIFIL. We are investing in Lebanon’s capacity to provide security for itself,” Kallas said. She added that the proposed training programme would cover areas including border and maritime security.
UNIFIL was established in 1978, shortly after Israel invaded southern Lebanon. Its current mandate is due to expire on December 31, potentially ending the UN peacekeeping mission’s 48-year presence in the country.
Kallas said the EU’s objective is to strengthen the Lebanese Armed Forces and improve the state’s ability to maintain security throughout its territory. According to her, planning for the mission is progressing well, with an EU Council decision on its launch targeted for October.
The European External Action Service has circulated a proposal in recent months for a three-year military and civilian mission. Under the plan, European personnel would advise and train both the Lebanese Armed Forces and the Internal Security Forces, the country’s police service.
