03/07/26 (Agence Europe) – Welcoming the framework agreement signed by Lebanon and Israel in Washington on 26 June (see EUROPE 13898/9), the EU High Representative, Kaja Kallas, announced on Thursday 2 July that the EU was ready to support the implementation of the framework agreement and to “further enhance its support for the Lebanese Armed Forces and the internal security forces, including through a possible EU mission”. In a statement on behalf of the EU, she emphasised the importance of a continued United Nations presence in Lebanon after the withdrawal of UNIFIL at the end of the year, and reaffirmed the EU’s willingness to contribute to this in 2027. According to Ms Kallas, the agreement “offers a much-needed perspective in the efforts towards de-escalation and peace, and towards restoring the Lebanese sovereignty and territorial integrity”. She urged all parties to respect the agreement and implement their commitments. See the statement: https://aeur.eu/f/mp7 (CG)