
During the memorandum signing ceremony between the Saudi center and the HCS at the Grand Serail. (Credit: NNA)
Saudi Arabia has announced a $10 million financial contribution to support stability and development in Lebanon through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre. A ceremony for signing a memorandum between the center and Lebanon's Higher Relief Council was held at the Grand Serail, organized by Saudi Ambassador Walid Bukhari. Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati and several dignitaries attended.
Ambassador Bukhari disclosed the aid amount, emphasizing, "This support underscores the kingdom's commitment to humanitarian and relief efforts, aimed at fostering stability and development in Lebanon."
"This assistance from the kingdom continues our solidarity with the Lebanese people," the diplomat remarked, noting Saudi contributions exceeding $2.7 billion over the years for humanitarian and development projects in Lebanon.
Mikati expressed gratitude for the aid, calling it "a testament to Saudi Arabia's dedication to Lebanon's stability and support."
"The kingdom has always been and will remain Lebanon's elder brother, working to uphold its security, stability, and unity," Mikati asserted. He reaffirmed Lebanon's commitment to fully implementing the Taif Agreement, describing it as "the most suitable framework for managing the country's affairs."
Relations between the two countries have been strained recently due to hostile statements from certain Lebanese political factions towards Saudi Arabia. However, there has been a thaw in relations in recent months, evidenced by the Saudi ambassador's participation in the Quintet — comprising the United States, France, Qatar, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia — which is initiating efforts to resolve the deadlock in Lebanon's presidential election, stagnant since Michel Aoun's term ended in October 2022.