Beirut: Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi has met with senior Lebanese officials in Beirut to discuss key bilateral issues and regional developments. On the final stop of his regional tour, which included a visit to Cairo on Monday, Araqchi arrived in the Lebanese capital on Tuesday morning.
According to Islamic Republic News Agency, during a meeting with Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, the top diplomat reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to enhancing relations with Lebanon, particularly in the economic and trade sectors. He emphasized the need to activate the Iran-Lebanon Joint Cooperation Commission to further expand bilateral ties. Prime Minister Salam welcomed Araqchi’s visit, expressing Beirut’s readiness to strengthen relations with the Islamic Republic. The two officials also reviewed the latest regional developments, reinforcing their countries’ shared commitment to cooperation and stability.
In a separate meeting with Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, the foreign minister stated that Iran is resolved to open a ‘new chapter of friendly ties’ with Lebanon in different political and economic spheres. Berri criticized Israel’s violation of a late November ceasefire agreement with his country, highlighting Lebanon’s full compliance with the agreement. He noted that liberating the occupied territories of Lebanon and the reconstruction of war-stricken areas are two main priorities for Beirut. Araqchi had earlier met with his Lebanese counterpart, Youssef Rajji, and President Joseph Aoun.