Beirut: The Minister of Information, Paul Morcos, emphasized Lebanon's appreciation for Pakistan's diplomatic efforts to lower tensions and promote dialogue and stability in the region during an interview with the Pakistani channel Geo News. The channel broadcasts across the Indian Ocean, Canada, Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. Morcos stressed that diplomacy remains the sole path to achieving lasting stability.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the minister, who had recently received the Pakistani ambassador, stated that Lebanon welcomes any sincere initiative that brings parties to the dialogue table and fosters peaceful solutions. He acknowledged Pakistan's diplomatic role as a bridge facilitating dialogue, particularly through one of the most significant international mediations it sponsors. Morcos also praised Pakistan's experience in mediation and reconciling viewpoints since 1971.
Paul Morcos expressed Lebanon's great hopes in diplomatic efforts to reduce regional escalation. He recalled President Joseph Aoun's statements regarding the negotiations in Switzerland between the United States and Iran as an opportunity to support a comprehensive ceasefire and create conditions for lasting stability.
The minister presented statistical data on Israeli attacks against Lebanon, highlighting the heavy human toll of over 4,000 deaths and more than 12,000 injuries. Additionally, approximately 1.5 million people have been displaced, and thousands of homes, public infrastructure, and essential equipment have been destroyed or damaged.
He emphasized that reconstruction and civilian protection are now among the primary priorities of the government led by Nawaf Salam.
The Information Minister also stated that Lebanon's priorities include consolidating the ceasefire, ensuring the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from occupied Lebanese territories, securing the release of prisoners, resolving outstanding issues, enabling the return of displaced individuals, and rebuilding their villages.
He concluded by reaffirming the friendship between Lebanon and Pakistan and lauding the military cooperation between the two countries.