Qatar’s Prime Minister announced continued support for Lebanon following the formation of a new government. With ongoing aid to the Lebanese army and hopes for resumed oil exploration, Qatar aims to establish strategic partnerships. Amid regional tensions and pressing reconstruction needs, the international community is watching closely as Lebanon navigates its political landscape.
On Tuesday, Qatar’s Prime Minister announced that the country would provide support to Lebanese institutions following the formation of a new government. Qatar has been supplying the Lebanese army with fuel and salary grants. Lebanon is in urgent need of international funding to address significant reconstruction costs stemming from conflicts with Israel, which devastated large areas last year.
In a press conference held in Beirut after discussions with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani reiterated Qatar’s commitment to supporting the Lebanese army. Al Thani expressed optimism about the formation of the government, stating, “We are looking forward to the formation of the government and after that will look at a strategic partnership based on mutual interest.”
President Aoun conveyed his hopes for TotalEnergies to recommence oil and gas exploration off Lebanon’s coast. Recently, QatarEnergy collaborated with TotalEnergies and Italy’s Eni in a consortium to search for oil and gas in two maritime areas adjacent to Lebanon. Al Thani’s visit also included meetings with Prime Minister Najib Mikati, Prime Minister-elect Nawaf Salam, and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri.
Salam, a distinguished judge previously leading the International Court of Justice, was nominated on January 13 to establish the new cabinet. Meanwhile, US officials have urged Lebanese leaders to prevent Hezbollah or its ally Amal from influencing the appointment of Lebanon’s next finance minister. Since the escalation of hostilities that began on October 7, 2023, Israel has been conducting military operations against Hezbollah to protect its citizens from ongoing rocket attacks. A ceasefire was eventually established in November.
This article discusses Qatar’s ongoing support for Lebanon, particularly in light of recent governmental changes and the pressing need for reconstruction following conflicts with Israel. With the Lebanese army receiving aid from Qatar, the article highlights the potential for strategic partnerships and the hope for resumed oil exploration activities that may contribute to Lebanon’s recovery. The broader regional context includes the implications of US pressures on Lebanese officials and the recent clashes between Israel and Hezbollah.
In summary, Qatar’s support for Lebanon is set to continue as the nation forms a new government, with a focus on mutual projects and strategic partnerships. The ongoing challenges faced by Lebanon, including reconstruction costs and regional tensions, underscore the need for international assistance and cooperation. The article reflects a cautiously optimistic outlook on future developments in Lebanese governance and economic recovery.
Original Source: english.aawsat.com
