Sidon: Chinese Ambassador to Lebanon Chen Chuandong said Lebanon's participation in China's Belt and Road Initiative could pave the way for accelerated implementation of joint projects once conditions in the country stabilize.

According to National news agency - Lebanon, during a tour of Sidon, Chen met former MP Bahia Hariri, Lebanese-Chinese Businessmen Association President Ali Abdallah, acting South and Nabatieh Governor Mansour Daou, acting Sidon Mayor Ahmad Akkra, and Haret Saida Mayor Mustafa Zein.

Chen noted that Lebanon and China signed a Belt and Road memorandum of understanding in 2017, stressing Beijing's continued support for Lebanon without conditions. He highlighted Chinese humanitarian, healthcare, and renewable-energy assistance, including solar-energy systems and street lighting, and said the Chinese-built conservatory would become a cultural landmark.

Chen also reaffirmed China's support for Lebanon's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, while emphasizing opportunities to expand cooperation in trade, technology, infrastructure, services, and culture.