Qatar and Lebanon Agree on Energy Cooperation Framework
Translated & summarized from Arab48 by baba
Qatar's Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani visited Beirut and agreed with Lebanese officials on a comprehensive energy cooperation framework, including a major investment project to be financed and operated by Qatar. The deal aims to address Lebanon's chronic electricity crisis and boost its economy. Discussions also covered security, with Qatar reaffirming support for the Lebanese army and calling for UN Resolution 1701 implementation. Lebanese leaders welcomed the agreement and Qatar's continued support.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Qatar and Lebanon agreed on a comprehensive energy cooperation framework including a major investment project.
- The Qatari-funded project aims to rehabilitate and modernize Lebanon's electricity infrastructure.
- Qatar will finance, implement, and operate the electricity project without upfront cost to Lebanon.
- Qatar reaffirmed support for the Lebanese army and called for UN Resolution 1701 implementation.
- Lebanese officials welcomed the energy deal and Qatar's continued support amid economic and security challenges.
Qatar announced on Friday an agreement with Lebanon to establish a comprehensive framework for energy cooperation, including a significant investment project beneficial to both the Lebanese economy and participating Qatari entities. The announcement came during a press conference in Beirut held by Qatar's Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, alongside Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam. Al Thani also met with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri.
Al Thani stated that Qatar stands with the Lebanese people during the current difficult regional period and aims to strengthen partnerships across various sectors. He elaborated that the energy cooperation framework will involve a large-scale investment project designed to benefit both economies. Lebanon has been grappling with a severe electricity shortage, exacerbated by a financial crisis that began in 2019, leading to a scarcity of foreign currency needed for fuel imports to operate power plants.
Regarding security, Al Thani emphasized the necessity of implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1701, calling for Israel's withdrawal from Lebanese territory and adherence to agreed-upon terms. He affirmed Qatar's continued support for the Lebanese army and announced coordination with the United States to initiate efforts for rebuilding southern Lebanon, facilitating the return of displaced persons.
Lebanese Prime Minister Salam revealed that the two governments are close to finalizing a project to rehabilitate, develop, and modernize Lebanon's electricity infrastructure. He noted that Qatar would finance, implement, and operate the project without any upfront cost to Lebanon, a crucial factor given the country's economic situation. Salam added that the project aims to increase electricity production, reduce costs, and improve management, which he believes will encourage investment and boost the Lebanese economy.
President Aoun urged Qatar to continue its efforts with Arab and friendly nations to pressure Israel to cease its attacks on southern Lebanon and implement the US-brokered "framework agreement." He expressed appreciation for Qatar's role in regional stability and its support for Lebanon, particularly the army. Aoun also discussed the situation in southern Lebanon with Al Thani, highlighting the casualties and destruction caused by ongoing Israeli attacks. He welcomed enhanced bilateral cooperation, especially in the energy sector, and thanked the Emir of Qatar for his country's support.
Parliament Speaker Berri echoed sentiments of aligned Lebanese and Qatari positions on national unity and supporting state institutions, particularly the army. He stated that discussions covered regional developments, political and field updates amid Israeli attacks, and bilateral relations. Berri praised Qatar's commitment to Lebanon's sovereignty, the liberation of its territory, the return of the displaced, and its contribution to Lebanon's recovery and reconstruction.