(UPDATE) MIKATI PRAISES SAUDI SUPPORT AS BUKHARI EMPHASIZES KSA’S COMMITMENT DURING SIGNING OF COOPERATION AGREEMENT BETWEEN KING SALMAN HUMANITARIAN AID AND RELIEF CENTER, HIGHER RELIEF COMMITTEE

Caretaker Prime Minister, Najib Mikati, on Tuesday delivered a speech at the signing ceremony of a cooperation agreement between the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center and the Higher Relief Committee. Mikati expressed his pleasure at hosting the event at the Grand Serail, emphasizing the significance of this partnership as a testament to Saudi Arabia's commitment to Lebanon's stability and support in various fields, under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the Crown Prince. Mikati highlighted the deep and steadfast brotherly relationship between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia, underscoring Saudi Arabia's consistent support for Lebanon during difficult times. The PM further noted that the Kingdom has been a stabilizing force, maintaining unity among the Lebanese people, regardless of sect or political affiliation. Referring to the Taif Agreement, Mikati stressed the importance of fully implementing its provisions as the appropriate framework for managing the country's affairs . He reiterated Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's support for Lebanon's recovery, contingent on the implementation of necessary structural reforms and the full functioning of Lebanese institutions, including the election of a new president. Mikati emphasized that this responsibility lies with the Lebanese people, who must fulfill their duties with the support of friendly nations, particularly Saudi Arabia. The PM then praised the transformative reforms in Saudi Arabia, which have modernized the Kingdom and achieved significant progress, earning global recognition. He pointed out that these regional agreements will contribute to stability and advancement in the region. Mikati expressed hope that Saudi Arabia's fraternal support will help Lebanon rise again. In conclusion, Mikati thanked 'all those involved in facilitating this grant, especially the diligent and experienced ambassador', and warmly welcomed the attendees. For his part, Ambassador Bukhari delivered a speech at the ceremony celebrating the la unch of around 28 projects across various Lebanese regions, supported by a $10 million financial contribution from Saudi Arabia through the King Salman Center. "This support reflects the commitment of the wise leadership of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, under the guidance of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, to humanitarian and relief work, ensuring stability and development in Lebanon with the highest standards of transparency and accountability," said Bukhari. He emphasized that King Salman Center was a leading international entity dedicated to assisting disaster- and crisis-affected communities, aiming to alleviate their suffering and ensure a dignified life. Bukhari highlighted that since its founding, the Center has implemented over 7,000 humanitarian projects in 169 countries, with a total value of $129.68 billion, setting an exemplary standard for neutrality and transparency in humanitarian aid. He note d that Saudi Arabia has executed 129 humanitarian, relief, and development projects in Lebanon across various sectors, amounting to $2.7 billion. "This support is a continuation of Saudi Arabia's solidarity with the Lebanese people, driven by the principles of genuine Arab brotherhood and the teachings of Islam," Bukhari added. In closing, Bukhari thanked Prime Minister Najib Mikati for his patronage of the event and all attendees who contributed to the continuation of such projects. Following the speeches, the Secretary General of the Higher Relief Committee, Major General Mohammed Khair, and the Director of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center in Lebanon, Abdulrahman Al-Quraishi, signed the cooperation agreement. The ceremony commenced with the national anthems of Lebanon and Saudi Arabia and was presented by journalist Mounir Al-Hafi. Source: National News Agency - Lebanon