Ain el remmaneh: The President of the Order of Malta Lebanon, Marwan Sehnaoui, on Tuesday welcomed representatives from southern border villages to the organization's center in Ain el Remmaneh, announcing a new initiative aimed at empowering these communities. This gathering, attended by the Board of Directors, members, staff, and the Charg© d'Affaires of the Embassy of the Sovereign Order of Malta to Lebanon, reaffirmed a longstanding commitment to support vulnerable populations in the region.

According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the Order of Malta's presence in Lebanon dates back to 1953, with a deeply rooted involvement in the South for over 40 years. The organization is dedicated to aiding communities in southern Lebanon, ensuring they remain in their homes despite challenging circumstances.

During the event, an opening prayer was conducted by the Order's chaplains, followed by a presentation by the Managing Director on the Order's historical presence in the South. Sehnaoui addressed the attendees, emphasizing the shared struggles and courage of the communities, and expressing gratitude for their attendance despite difficult times.

Sehnaoui highlighted the Order's mission as not only a duty but a mission of courage and love. He affirmed the organization's commitment to deploying its full range of medical, social, and agro-humanitarian resources to support these communities.

The Order's network, which includes Community Health Centers, Mobile Medical Units, and other essential services, continues to provide support across multiple areas in the South, reinforcing a bond of trust and stability.

Sehnaoui announced a new initiative to build long-term resilience, involving the establishment of an independent expert committee working with local leaders. The initiative aims to develop a sustainable plan for the empowerment of southern villages, ensuring communities can thrive in both peace and conflict.

He assured that the plan would be fully budgeted, with efforts to secure international resources for its implementation. Sehnaoui emphasized the Order's role as ambassadors, committed to conveying the needs of these communities globally.

In closing, Sehnaoui reflected on the significance of the current season, calling for courage and service inspired by faith. He underscored the Order's dedication to bringing hope and support to southern Lebanon, transforming challenges into opportunities for a brighter future.

Municipal leaders and local representatives expressed their unity and trust in the Order, highlighting a shared determination to rebuild and plan for renewal amidst uncertainty. They affirmed that even in challenging times, the act of planning for renewal provides strength and hope.