[DIPLOMACY] Lebanese-Spanish Agreement on Increased Cooperation of 1972

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The Republic of Lebanon and the Spanish State have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral relations through enhanced cooperation in the following areas:

1. Banking Sector Development: Both nations will collaborate in the banking sector, with Lebanese financial institutions, including Bank Audi and other smaller banks, being encouraged to expand their presence in Spain through the establishment of new branches.

2. Intelligence and Security Cooperation: Spain will support Lebanon’s ongoing efforts to reform its intelligence services by deploying five security intelligence advisors to Lebanon. Additionally, both countries will enhance collaboration through intelligence sharing to address mutual security concerns.

3. Diplomatic Cooperation: Lebanon understands the Spanish political and security concerns regarding the ongoing events in Africa while maintaining official neutrality on the matter. Lebanon is committed to provide discreet diplomatic support to Spain on the matters concerning the status of Spanish Sahara.

4. Tourism: Recognizing the potential for mutual benefits in tourism and cultural exchange, the two countries agree to promote tourism and to establish new direct flight routes between Beirut and the Spanish cities of Madrid, Barcelona, and Malaga.

5. Defense Collaboration: Spain has agreed to provide Lebanon with up to 5,000 CETME Model 58 rifles, limited quantity of other equipment and ten additional Army personnel to assist in training. These resources will be used to improve the capabilities of the Kataeb Regulatory Forces.

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Signded:

~President Suleiman Frangieh

~Minister of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants Khalil Abou Hamad

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Signed.