French President kicks off middle east tour in Lebanon

The French President has arrived in Lebanon for the start of his four-day trip to the Middle East.

Francois Hollande will spend the first two days of his tour in Lebanon, before travelling on to Egypt and Jordan.

Security is tight.

Hollande was met on arrival by Deputy Prime Minister, Samir Mouqbel.

Hollande kicks off Mideast tour in Lebanon… https://t.co/OPvOENKbdwpic.twitter.com/lZ3BMRkfjB

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The speaker of Lebanon’s parliament, Nabih Berry, hosted an official welcome ceremony in Beirut itself.

#BREAKING France to give Lebanon 100 mln euros to aid refugees: Hollande https://t.co/qwqedvareFpic.twitter.com/u6ZeTX0WW4

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During his trip, Hollande is due to meet refugees who will be resettled in France. It has been announced that Paris is to give Lebanon 100 million euros over the next three years to help ease the crisis.

Hollande is also expected to underline French support for the Lebanese Army.

Saudi Arabia suspended a grant of 3 billion dollars of French weapons to Lebanon earlier this year.