Qatar PM Pledges Support for Lebanon’s Reconstruction Following Government Formation
Qatar’s Prime Minister announced support for Lebanon’s reconstruction post-conflict contingent upon the establishment of a new government. Emphasizing a strategic partnership, he highlighted Qatar’s historical involvement in aiding Lebanon. The Prime Minister also stressed compliance with ceasefire agreements and the ongoing humanitarian aid Qatar provides to Lebanon’s military and population.
During a recent visit to Beirut, Qatar’s Prime Minister acknowledged that his country is prepared to assist Lebanon in its reconstruction efforts following the recent conflict with Israel. However, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani specified that support would commence only after a new government has been established in Lebanon. His remarks came after a meeting with Lebanon’s newly-elected President, Joseph Aoun.
Qatar has a historical precedent of aiding Lebanon, especially following the Hezbollah-Israel war in 2006. Al-Thani expressed Qatar’s commitment to economic support and reconstruction, stating that the nation would actively participate once the Lebanese government formation is complete. He anticipates the development of a strategic partnership between Qatar and Lebanon.
The Prime Minister is expected to engage with senior Lebanese officials, including prime minister-designate Nawaf Salam, who is working to form a government amid ongoing challenges. Last month, Qatar, alongside several nations including the United States and France, exerted significant efforts to help establish a president in Lebanon, thereby ending a political vacuum that lasted two years.
As tensions remain high, Al-Thani emphasized the importance of compliance with the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah, which has been fragile since November 27. He reiterated that it is crucial for Israeli forces to withdraw from southern Lebanon according to the established agreement.
Moreover, he highlighted the necessity to implement United Nations Security Council resolutions ensuring that only UN peacekeepers and the Lebanese Armed Forces operate in southern Lebanon. The initial agreement included provisions for the Lebanese military to work with peacekeepers during the Israeli military’s phased withdrawal.
In addition to his commitment to reconstruction, Al-Thani affirmed Qatar’s continued humanitarian assistance to Lebanon. Though the United States remains the principal source of financial support for the Lebanese army, Qatar also extends both financial and material aid to bolster this effort.
In the context of ongoing political instability and repeated conflicts, Lebanon has increasingly relied on support from Gulf states for reconstruction and humanitarian assistance. The region has faced numerous crises that have strained Lebanon’s economy and infrastructure. Qatar has historically played a significant role in aiding Lebanon, particularly after the 2006 war. Recent military hostilities and political deadlocks have underscored the urgency for a stable government before extensive rebuilding efforts can commence.
In summary, Qatar is poised to provide significant support for Lebanon’s reconstruction following a governmental formation. With a historical record of involvement in Lebanese recovery efforts and ongoing humanitarian aid, Qatar aims to play a pivotal role in stabilizing and rebuilding Lebanon. The progress in forming a government is crucial, as it will determine the timeline and effectiveness of reconstruction initiatives.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
