Qatar has reinforced its commitment to supporting Lebanon’s sovereignty, stability, and economic recovery, with plans to expand cooperation in various sectors, including energy and electricity. This affirmation was made by Qatar’s Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, during discussions with Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam. The talks focused on strengthening bilateral relations, addressing regional tensions, and supporting Lebanon’s state institutions.
Sheikh Mohammed highlighted Qatar’s ongoing assistance across key sectors such as energy, education, healthcare, and economic development. He reiterated Doha’s support for the Lebanese Armed Forces, emphasizing their role in maintaining national security and stability. A significant development from the discussions was progress towards energy sector cooperation, with QatarEnergy reaching an agreement with France’s TotalEnergies to jointly develop a solar power plant, marking a pivotal step in broader energy collaboration between the nations.
Additionally, Lebanon is advancing towards a project aimed at rehabilitating and modernizing its electricity generation infrastructure under a build-operate-transfer model. This arrangement, as noted by Prime Minister Salam, would enable the project to proceed without requiring upfront investment from the Lebanese treasury, thus easing financial constraints on the country.
Qatar also expressed concern over escalating hostilities in Lebanon, condemning Israeli attacks on peacekeeping forces and violations of Lebanese territory. Sheikh Mohammed called for the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701, urging an end to hostilities and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from occupied Lebanese areas.
Prime Minister Salam welcomed Qatar’s continued political, economic, and humanitarian support, acknowledging its contribution to reconstruction efforts and backing for Lebanese state institutions. He noted that cooperation in energy, electricity, and investment is crucial for bolstering the economy, aiding reconstruction, and allowing displaced residents to return to their communities.
Qatar reiterated its commitment to working with international partners to enhance Lebanon’s security and stability, underscoring its role in supporting the country’s long-term recovery efforts.