Qatar’s Prime Minister announced during his Beirut visit that assistance for Lebanon’s reconstruction will commence after a new government is formed. Emphasizing strategic partnerships, he highlighted Qatar’s commitment to economic support amidst Lebanon’s ongoing crises and the necessity of governmental stability for effective collaboration.
During a visit to Beirut, Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani of Qatar affirmed that his country would assist Lebanon in its reconstruction efforts following the recent Hezbollah-Israel conflict, contingent upon the establishment of a new government. Lebanon, grappling with prolonged crises, is relying heavily on Gulf cooperation for funding reconstruction, with Qatar’s historical involvement noted since the 2006 war.
Al-Thani expressed confidence that Qatar would provide significant economic and reconstruction support, stating, “When it comes to economic support and support for reconstruction, there is no doubt that the State of Qatar will be there.” Following a meeting with Lebanon’s new President Joseph Aoun, he emphasized the importance of forming a government to advance discussions on support initiatives.
The Prime Minister’s visit is characterized as a “visit of support”, with plans to meet with various senior officials, including prime minister-designate Nawaf Salam, who is expected to lead government formation efforts, although these efforts are currently stalled. Qatar, alongside other nations such as the United States and France, played a crucial role in pressuring for the recent presidential election in Lebanon.
A ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah has been in effect since November, following extensive hostilities. Al-Thani reiterated the need for Israeli troops to comply with withdrawal agreements from southern Lebanon and urged the implementation of a Security Council resolution that mandates the presence of Lebanese forces and UN peacekeepers in the south.
Under the terms of the ceasefire, Lebanon’s military is set to operate alongside UN forces during the Israeli withdrawal, with a deadline extended to February 18 for completion. Both parties have accused each other of violations regarding this truce. The Qatari Prime Minister also pledged ongoing humanitarian aid and support to Lebanon’s financially-strained military.
Lebanon has faced a series of political and economic challenges, significantly worsened by conflicts, particularly the recent war with Israel involving Hezbollah. Reconstruction efforts are vital for the country’s recovery, and support from Gulf nations, particularly Qatar, has proven essential. The current political climate necessitates a stable government to facilitate international assistance and cooperation, as seen in negotiations and pressures leading to Lebanon’s recent presidential election.
In summary, Qatar’s Prime Minister has committed to aiding Lebanon’s reconstruction efforts post-conflict but stressed the need for a functioning government to proceed with discussions. The ongoing political upheaval in Lebanon and its reliance on international support highlights critical needs for economic stability and strategic partnerships to navigate the current challenges.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
