Beirut, January 25, 2025 – In a significant diplomatic meeting today, President of the Lebanese Republic, Joseph Aoun, welcomed Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, who was accompanied by Kuwaiti Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdullah Al-Yahya, at the Baabda Presidential Palace in Beirut. The discussions marked another step in reinforcing the strong ties between Lebanon and the GCC, underlining the region's continued support for Lebanon in a time of crucial political and economic challenges.
At the beginning of the meeting, Secretary-General Albudaiwi conveyed heartfelt congratulations to President Aoun on his election, acknowledging the significant leadership role he has assumed in Lebanon’s ongoing efforts to restore stability and promote the welfare of its citizens. Albudaiwi expressed his best wishes for Aoun’s success in his mission to uplift and secure Lebanon, as the country navigates its path toward recovery and progress. He highlighted the GCC's unwavering commitment to supporting Lebanon in its endeavor to fulfill the aspirations of the Lebanese people.
The conversation focused on Lebanon’s current political landscape, with Albudaiwi reiterating the GCC’s firm and consistent support for Lebanon’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence. The GCC Secretary-General emphasized that the Council stands ready to assist Lebanon in its pursuit of lasting security, stability, and sustainable development. He assured President Aoun that the GCC would continue its efforts to foster Lebanon’s prosperity and resilience in the face of numerous challenges.
A key element of the discussions was the importance of adhering to United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions, particularly Resolution 1701, which aims to uphold peace and security in Lebanon. Albudaiwi stressed that the full implementation of UNSC resolutions, alongside the provisions of the Taif Agreement, is essential to restoring long-term peace and stability in Lebanon. The Secretary-General underscored that these measures are vital for securing Lebanon’s future by ensuring respect for its internationally recognized borders, territorial integrity, and the full control of its government over all Lebanese territory.
Albudaiwi’s remarks reaffirmed the GCC’s continued support for Lebanon’s political institutions, highlighting the importance of maintaining Lebanon's independence and sovereignty in the face of external and internal challenges. This commitment is aligned with the broader goals of the GCC to foster stability across the region and ensure that Lebanon can overcome its ongoing crises, including political fragmentation, economic instability, and security concerns.
The meeting also touched on the broader regional context, with both sides acknowledging the importance of regional cooperation in addressing shared challenges. As Lebanon continues its journey toward recovery, the discussions highlighted the vital role of international partnerships, particularly with the GCC, in ensuring Lebanon’s path to a peaceful, stable, and prosperous future.
The visit of Secretary-General Albudaiwi and Minister Al-Yahya to Beirut is a powerful reminder of the GCC's enduring commitment to Lebanon and its people. As the Kingdoms of the Gulf continue to support Lebanon’s stability, they remain steadfast in their belief that Lebanon’s sovereignty and security must be preserved, with full respect for the nation’s territorial boundaries and the authority of its legitimate government. The GCC's ongoing engagement with Lebanon signals hope for a future where the Lebanese people can fulfill their aspirations for a better and more secure future.