Qatar Participates in 'International Conference in Support of Lebanon's People and Sovereignty'
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Paris| October 24, 2024
The State of Qatar participated in the International Conference in Support of Lebanon's People and Sovereignty, which was held in the French capital, Paris, on Thursday. HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi represented the State of Qatar at the conference.
In his speech at the conference, His Excellency pointed out the serious challenges facing Lebanon at the political, economic and humanitarian levels. He said that the State of Qatar stands today with Lebanon's partners, the United Nations, the European Union and major organizations from around the world to continue supporting the Lebanese people.
His Excellency considered that the Israeli campaign on Lebanon a flagrant violation of international law, in which international borders must be respected, security and stability must be maintained, and human rights and the dignity of all peoples must be protected. The recent operations along the border cannot be viewed as isolated military operations, but rather a disturbing disregard for international law, His Excellency stressed.
Such actions defy the basic principles of human dignity and respect for sovereignty, and undermine the obligations stipulated in Security Council Resolution 1701, which was designed to promote peace and stability in Lebanon, he added.
HE the Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stressed that these attacks go beyond purely military operations, and threaten Lebanon's territorial integrity and political independence, adding that they "not only threaten to drag the region into a wider war, but also pose serious consequences for global security and stability." He called on the international community to carry out and fulfill its duties towards violations related to international law, and push for effective de-escalation measures.
His Excellency voiced the State of Qatar's concern over the recent events that have affected the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), noting that any actions that could affect the safety of peacekeeping forces are of grave concern and must be addressed with the utmost seriousness.
He indicated that the State of Qatar has launched an air bridge to Lebanon, as part of its ongoing efforts to address this humanitarian crisis, explaining that more than 150 tons of aid have been delivered, including medical equipment and basic materials. He also noted Qatar's cooperation with France to send joint humanitarian aid to Lebanon.
The State of Qatar, through the Qatar Development Fund, has provided and committed to aid to Lebanon, including supporting the operations of the Lebanese Armed Forces, in addition to supporting fuel for the Karantina Hospital, which helps in the continuation of basic services, in partnership with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, His Excellency added.
The State of Qatar firmly believes in the importance of ensuring the continuity of education during crises, he said pointing that through the 'Education Above All Foundation,' Qatar remains committed to supporting education in Lebanon and safeguarding the long-term mental well-being of children and youth affected by war. A significant portion of this assistance comes in the form of in-kind contributions from Qatar's World Cup legacy, designed to showcase innovative and diverse solutions to sustain education in emergency situations, he explained.
His Excellency reaffirmed the State of Qatar's unwavering support for an immediate ceasefire and a diplomatic resolution to the conflict. He emphasized Qatar's ongoing commitment to facilitating the safe return of displaced persons in Lebanon to their homes. Additionally, he reiterated Qatar's dedication to coordinating with international partners to achieve a global consensus that fosters peace and stability in Lebanon.
In closing, HE the Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized Qatar's support for Lebanese institutions in their efforts to safeguard the country's sovereignty and protect the rights of its people. He urged that these efforts be swiftly utilized to address the political vacuum currently affecting the nation.