The Lebanese Army Commander-in-Chief, General Rodolph Haykal, visited France on December 17 and 18, 2025, where he met with his French counterpart, Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces, General Fabien Mandon (photo).

Discussions focused on ways to enhance cooperation between the two armies, particularly in strengthening the capabilities of the military institution and joint training.

During the meeting, General Mandon emphasized the importance of supporting the Army in order to safeguard Lebanon’s security, sovereignty, and stability, the Lebanese Army said in a statement.

For his part, General Haykal expressed his appreciation to General Mandon and to the French authorities for their continued initiatives in support of Lebanon and its Army during the current exceptional period.

He further underscored the substantial efforts being undertaken by the Army to maintain Lebanon’s security and stability, as well as the implementation of the first phase of its plan in the South Litani Sector, in accordance with the established timetable.

Earlier, the Lebanese Army Commander-in-Chief received in his office in Yarzeh on 15 December the German State Minister at the Ministry of Defense, Mr. Nils Hilmer. Discussions focused on cooperation relations between the two countries Armed Forces.

Subsequently, General Haykal and Minister Hilmer signed two agreements to support the Army by the German authorities, through the provision of fuel supplies and the strengthening of military medical services.

The signing of the two agreements reaffirms the German authorities’ commitment to supporting Lebanon’s stability and the capabilities of its Army in light of the current challenges. (Source & Photo © Lebanese Army)