Doha – Tariq Al-Masafa:
Over many years, the State of Qatar has been a steadfast support for the sister Republic of Lebanon, placing Lebanon’s security, stability, sovereignty and territorial integrity at the top of its priorities, and confirming through its political positions and humanitarian and development initiatives that standing by Lebanon is not just a diplomatic position, but rather a firm fraternal commitment that reflects the depth of the relations that bring together the two brotherly countries and peoples.
Since the outbreak of the crises that struck Lebanon, Doha has been keen to be present in various international and regional efforts aimed at supporting the Lebanese state, supporting its legitimate institutions, and enhancing political, security and economic stability in the country. The State of Qatar also actively participated in international conferences and meetings related to Lebanon, affirming in all forums its full support for Lebanon’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, and the necessity of preserving its security and stability and enabling its institutions to carry out their national role.
Qatari diplomacy played a prominent role in bringing the views of the Lebanese parties closer together during many turning points, based on its belief that dialogue and consensus are the best way to overcome crises and consolidate civil peace. It also continued to coordinate with international and regional partners to mobilize the necessary support for Lebanon and help it face the political and economic challenges it has experienced in recent years.
On the humanitarian and development level, the State of Qatar provided extensive assistance in this regard. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs published on its official account on Masa (X) an illustration of Qatari aid to the sisterly Lebanese Republic in numbers, which included the health, education and energy sectors, in addition to support for the Lebanese army and vital institutions of the state. The Qatari support provided to the energy sector and the Lebanese army exceeded $434 million, in addition to supplying the army with about 6,100 tons of fuel, in addition to a grant worth $30 million to secure its fuel needs for a period of six months, thus enhancing its ability to perform its tasks in maintaining security and stability.
Doha was also quick to stand by the Lebanese people in the most difficult circumstances, as it allocated $50 million to support the reconstruction efforts of the areas affected by the Beirut port explosion, and established an air bridge to transport humanitarian and medical aid, which included about 100 tons of medicines and medical supplies, in a practical embodiment of Qatari solidarity with the Lebanese brothers. Qatar also pledged to provide $30 million during the Paris conference to support emergency relief projects in Lebanon, affirming its continued commitment to supporting the Lebanese people in facing various challenges.
These contributions reflect an integrated Qatari approach that combines political, humanitarian and development support, and aims to strengthen Lebanon’s steadfastness, support its national institutions, and maintain its security and stability. It also confirms that the Lebanese issue has a special place in Qatari foreign policy, which is based on the principles of Arab solidarity and support for security and stability in the region.
The State of Qatar affirms that its support for Lebanon will not change, no matter how great the challenges become, and that its support will continue based on the principle that a brother has the right of his brother to stand with him in times of distress. From this standpoint, Doha will continue to provide various forms of political, diplomatic, humanitarian and development support, and contribute to all efforts aimed at enhancing Lebanon’s stability and protecting its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
At a time when Lebanon is facing great challenges at various levels, Qatar remains committed to its permanent support and support, believing in the ability of the Lebanese people to overcome adversity and restore their role and status. Doha will remain a loyal partner to Lebanon until it rises again, stands on its feet with confidence, regains full health and returns to its former state as a homeland of security, stability and prosperity.
