Beirut:Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani announced that Doha is seeking to enhance Lebanon's energy sector by activating joint projects previously agreed upon between the two countries. This was stated following his meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, Al Thani emphasized that the energy sector is a key priority for Lebanon and indicated that further discussions with Prime Minister Nawaf Salam would focus on implementing these projects. He also discussed regional issues and international developments, particularly concerning southern Lebanon and Israeli occupation practices.

Al Thani reiterated Qatar's support for Lebanon and called for the withdrawal of the Israeli army from Lebanese territory, transferring control to the Lebanese army. He also affirmed Qatar's ongoing support for Lebanon's initiatives.

Meanwhile, Lebanese Foreign Minister Youssef Rajji stated his country's commitment to maintaining an international force in southern Lebanon to replace UNIFIL after its mission concludes at year-end. His comments followed a meeting with UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix, where they discussed the future of the international presence in the region and expressed gratitude to UN peacekeepers for their efforts.

Lacroix, who has been in Lebanon since Wednesday, is engaging with local officials on extending UNIFIL's mission. He highlighted the UN's commitment to supporting Lebanon while respecting its sovereignty. The discussions coincide with a recent EU decision to establish a new support mission in Lebanon, aimed at strengthening the Lebanese army and Internal Security Forces.