Beirut: Minister of Information, Attorney Paul Morcos, representing President of the Republic General Joseph Aoun, extended a warm welcome to Emirati nationals arriving at Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport. This occasion marks the first visit of Emiratis to Lebanon following the UAE’s decision to lift the travel ban on its citizens, effective from May 7. This development follows President Aoun’s recent visit to Abu Dhabi, signaling a new chapter in Lebanese-UAE relations.

According to National News Agency – Lebanon, the Emiratis arriving on “Emirates” and “Etihad” Airways flights were greeted with flowers and sweets. Airport security, in collaboration with General Security, Customs, and the Internal Security Forces, ensured the smooth facilitation of the event. The arrivals hall was teeming with Lebanese, Arab, and international media professionals who covered the event extensively.

Airport Chairman Kamal Nassereddine, along with Airport Security Chief Brigadier General Fadi Kfoury, Internal Security Forces Inspection Branch Commander Brigadier General Izzat Al-Khatib, and other officers, were present to receive the Emirati visitors. Minister Morcos, in his welcoming address, expressed the joy of the Emiratis, who consider Lebanon a second home and one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

Minister Morcos highlighted the significance of this event, stating, “This is a happy day in the history of Lebanese-Arab and Gulf relations. Lebanon’s natural position is to welcome our Emirati and Gulf brothers. The country awaits their arrival with exceptional media coverage and hopes this will spark a revival in tourism and bilateral relations.”

Emphasizing the government’s commitment to fostering strong ties, Morcos added, “Today’s initiative will revitalize tourism in Lebanon and strengthen cooperation with brotherly nations. We look forward to the lifting of further travel bans, spurred by the measures taken by the government, to encourage visits to Lebanon’s tourist hubs.”

Minister Morcos reiterated the government’s determination to remove any barriers to the arrival of Gulf visitors and expressed gratitude towards the airport management for their role in creating a welcoming environment. Airport Chairman Kamal Nassereddine echoed these sentiments, noting the efforts to provide comprehensive facilities and present a positive image of Lebanon starting from the airport.