Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam visited Paris this week as France and Lebanon moved to reinforce their longstanding bilateral relationship, rooted in cultural, religious, and political ties dating back to the 19th century. The visit underscored France's continued engagement with Lebanon (a small Mediterranean country emerging from years of political and economic crisis), with the two countries signalling a renewed commitment to closer cooperation. The meeting holds broader significance as Lebanon seeks international support for its recovery and stabilisation efforts following a prolonged period of institutional paralysis.