Baabda: President of the Republic, Joseph Aoun, on Thursday reaffirmed Lebanon’s renewed presence on the international stage during a meeting at the Baabda Palace with eight Lebanese ambassadors appointed to missions abroad, just prior to their departure to their respective embassies.

According to National News Agency – Lebanon, President Aoun emphasized Lebanon’s regained position on the global map and addressed the ambassadors about their responsibilities. He highlighted the importance of representing a unified Lebanon and encouraged them to prioritize the nation’s interests in their diplomatic engagements. Aoun underscored the need for Lebanese embassies to facilitate official and unofficial visits, stressing that bypassing ambassadors is unacceptable.

Ambassador Abdel-Sattar Issa, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants, expressed gratitude for the confidence placed in the ambassadors and affirmed a commitment to operating as a cohesive team to benefit Lebanon. The ambassadors pledged to enhance Lebanon’s relationships and support Lebanese nationals abroad.

The meeting included several notable ambassadors, such as Ambassador Caroline Jazar to international organizations in Geneva, and Ambassador Carla Jazar to Italy, among others. Aoun also engaged with Ambassador Issa for guidance and support in his new role.

In other diplomatic affairs, President Aoun bid farewell to outgoing Malaysian Ambassador Dato Azri bin Yacob and expressed gratitude for his contributions to Lebanese-Malaysian relations. Aoun also met with French Ambassador Herv© Magro to discuss bilateral relations and upcoming United Nations meetings.

President Aoun hosted Sang Ho Jeon from the Asian Taekwondo Union and Lebanese Taekwondo Federation President Habib Zareefa, who presented medical aid from South Korea. Aoun acknowledged South Korea’s support and emphasized coordination with Lebanon’s Ministry of Health for the aid’s distribution.

Additionally, President Aoun celebrated Lebanon’s Under-23 football team, which qualified for the AFC U-23 Championship in Saudi Arabia. Lebanese Football Association President Hatem Haidar thanked Aoun for his support, highlighting the team’s achievements despite limited infrastructure. President Aoun praised the team and emphasized the positive impact of sports on society, urging youth to focus on health and avoid harmful substances.

President Aoun concluded the meeting by expressing pride in Lebanon’s achievements and received a traditional team jersey from the football team in appreciation of his support.