BEIRUT — Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani said Friday that Doha was working to provide comprehensive solutions for Lebanon’s energy sector and revive previously agreed joint projects.
Speaking after talks with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun in Beirut, Al Thani said discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations and implementing projects aimed at promoting security, stability and economic prosperity.
“The energy sector is a key priority for Lebanon,” he said, adding that he would discuss activating previously agreed projects during a subsequent meeting with Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam.
The Qatari prime minister said his talks with Aoun also addressed regional and international developments, particularly the situation in southern Lebanon and what he described as Israeli occupation practices.
He reiterated Qatar’s support for measures taken by the Lebanese government and stressed the need for Israeli forces to withdraw from Lebanese territory and transfer control of those areas to the Lebanese army.
Al Thani reaffirmed Doha’s commitment to supporting Lebanon as it works to strengthen its institutions and address economic and security challenges.
Meanwhile, Lebanese Foreign Minister Youssef Rajji reaffirmed his country’s commitment to maintaining an international peacekeeping presence in southern Lebanon after the mandate of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) expires at the end of the year.
Rajji made the remarks during a meeting with UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix, attended by UNIFIL commander Maj. Gen. Diodato Abagnara and an accompanying delegation, according to a Lebanese Foreign Ministry statement.
The discussions focused on security developments in southern Lebanon and arrangements for an international presence following the conclusion of UNIFIL’s current mandate.
Rajji praised the sacrifices made by UN peacekeepers in supporting security and stability in southern Lebanon.
Lacroix stressed the importance of preparing for the next phase, saying the UN Security Council would soon begin negotiations on the future of the international presence in Lebanon.
He reaffirmed the United Nations’ commitment to playing a constructive role while respecting Lebanon’s position.
Both sides agreed to intensify efforts to overcome obstacles and maintain an international presence in southern Lebanon under the UN flag.
Lacroix arrived in Lebanon on Wednesday for talks with senior officials on UNIFIL’s future and the possibility of extending its mission.
During his visit, he met President Aoun, Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, Prime Minister Salam and Lebanese army commander Gen. Rodolphe Haykal.
The discussions follow a decision by the Council of the European Union on Monday to establish a new three-year support mission in Lebanon aimed at strengthening the capabilities of the Lebanese army and Internal Security Forces.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas also emphasized during her October 7–8 visit to Lebanon the importance of preventing a security vacuum in the south after UNIFIL’s mandate expires.
UNIFIL operates in southern Lebanon under UN Security Council resolutions, with responsibilities including monitoring the cessation of hostilities and supporting the deployment of the Lebanese army.
Source: Saudi Gazette