Qatar Commits to Support Lebanon’s New Government and Collaborative Efforts
Qatar’s Prime Minister has announced continued support for Lebanon after the formation of a new government. In a press conference in Beirut, he reaffirmed assistance to the Lebanese army while expressing hope for strategic partnerships. Ongoing geopolitical matters, including oil exploration efforts and U.S. pressures on Lebanese officials, shape the significant context of this support.
On Tuesday, Qatar’s Prime Minister announced the nation’s commitment to support Lebanese institutions and endeavors to establish collaborative projects following the formation of a new Lebanese government. Qatar has been aiding the Lebanese army through grants intended for fuel and salary provisions, crucial for Lebanon, which is currently coping with significant reconstruction demands due to last year’s conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.
During a press conference in Beirut, hosted after a meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani expressed Qatar’s determination to bolster the Lebanese army. He noted, “We are looking forward to the formation of the government and after that will look at a strategic partnership based on mutual interest.”
Furthermore, President Aoun shared his hopes for TotalEnergies to resume oil and gas exploration efforts off Lebanon’s coast. In collaboration, QatarEnergy has partnered with France’s TotalEnergies and Italy’s Eni to explore potential resources in two maritime blocks off the Lebanese coastline since 2023.
In addition to discussions with President Aoun, Sheikh Mohammed also conferred with caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati, Prime Minister-elect Nawaf Salam, and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri. It is noteworthy that Salam, previously an International Court of Justice leader, was tasked on January 13 with forming the new cabinet.
Notably, U.S. officials have urged Lebanese leaders, including Salam, to prevent Hezbollah and its ally Amal from influencing the nomination of Lebanon’s next finance minister. Subsequently, on October 7, 2023, Hezbollah initiated hostilities with Israel, following the Hamas attacks, leading to a renewed Gaza conflict and ultimately a ceasefire with Israel in November.
The article addresses Qatar’s recent commitment to support Lebanon, particularly in the aftermath of the formation of a new Lebanese government. This support comes at a crucial time as Lebanon faces extensive infrastructure recovery needs resulting from the Israel-Hezbollah conflict of the previous year. The background includes Qatar’s historical assistance to the Lebanese army and the geopolitical implications of collaboration among regional powers, especially in the context of energy exploration and security considerations in Lebanon and the surrounding region. The formation of Lebanon’s new government is also pivotal, amidst domestic and external pressures, particularly regarding influential groups like Hezbollah, signaling a challenging political landscape.
In conclusion, Qatar’s pledge of support marks a significant diplomatic gesture towards Lebanon amidst its recovery phase. The emphasis on a strategic partnership signifies both countries’ desire for enhanced collaboration, especially in military support and energy resources. The complexity of regional politics, alongside Lebanon’s need for stability post-conflict, underlines the importance of such international relations and assistance in fostering national rebuilding efforts.
Original Source: english.aawsat.com
