Qatar PM Offers Reconstruction Aid to Lebanon Post-Government Formation
Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani affirmed Qatar’s pledge to aid Lebanon’s reconstruction, contingent on the formation of a new government. He highlighted the importance of cooperation to establish a strategic partnership while addressing international support and adhering to ceasefire agreements in the region.
During a recent visit to Beirut, the Prime Minister of Qatar, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, announced that Qatar would assist Lebanon in its reconstruction efforts following the recent conflicts once a new government has been established. The Lebanese government has been hopeful for support from Gulf nations, particularly given Qatar’s previous involvement post the 2006 Hezbollah-Israel war.
The Qatari Prime Minister expressed his commitment, stating, “When it comes to economic support and support for reconstruction, there is no doubt that the State of Qatar will be there.” He emphasized the importance of forming a government first, after which discussions on reconstruction would proceed, looking forward to forming a strategic partnership with Lebanon.
Al-Thani also met with Lebanon’s newly-elected President Joseph Aoun and other senior officials, including Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam, who is currently facing challenges in government formation. Qatar was instrumental in efforts that led to the election of a president last month to end a two-year political impasse.
A tenuous ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah has been in effect since November 27, following significant hostilities, including two months of intense warfare. The Qatari Prime Minister remarked on the importance of Israeli adherence to withdrawal agreements from southern Lebanon and reinforced the need for UN peacekeepers and the Lebanese military to be the sole forces in the southern region.
Under the ceasefire agreement, the Lebanese military is expected to collaborate with UN forces as the Israeli military withdraws, with a timeline previously extended due to delays. Al-Thani also reiterated Qatar’s continued humanitarian assistance and financial support for the Lebanese military, alongside backing from other nations, including the United States.
The issue of Lebanon’s reconstruction post-conflict has become critical following the recent Hezbollah-Israel war. The Lebanese state has endured considerable hardship, prompting its leadership to seek financial support primarily from Gulf nations like Qatar, known for its proactive role in reconstruction initiatives after previous conflicts. The political landscape, marked by a prolonged government formation process, further complicates the situation, with international players keen to assist once stability is restored.
The Prime Minister of Qatar reiterated his nation’s commitment to assist Lebanon in its post-conflict recovery, contingent upon the establishment of a stable government. His remarks underscore Qatar’s history of involvement in Lebanese reconstruction, the significance of international cooperation in achieving political stability, and the ongoing humanitarian support required to address Lebanon’s pressing needs, particularly for its military and civil infrastructure.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
