BEIRUT, Lebanon, Aug 27, SPA -- The first batch of some 240 French soldiers arrived at Beirut airport Sunday to help the Lebanese army in rebuilding bridges destroyed or damaged by Israeli airstrikes during the 34-day fighting between Israeli forces and Hezbollah fighters. A French military plane landed at Beirut airport carrying some 60 soldiers from the Second Regiment of the Legion of Jenie. «They are here to help the Lebanese army in constructing about 15 bridges across Lebanon,» said Lt. Philip Toroller, an officer of the French military mission based at the French Embassy in Beirut. Speaking by telephone shortly after the 60 soldiers landed at the airport, he said two other French planes would arrive later Sunday, carrying the remaining members of the 240 soldiers. «Our job is to work jointly with the Lebanese army inrebuilding bridges. The French troops will be here forabout one and a half months at least,» he was quoted as saying by the Associated Press. Toroller said the French troops will go first to Damour, a coastal town south of Beirut, where they will begin workbefore moving to other areas in south Lebanon. «We received yesterday part of steel bridges that will be installed by French troops, replacing damaged bridges,» he said.--SPA www.spa.gov.sa/385270