Hungary’s Commitment to Supporting Christian Communities in Lebanon

Hungary’s Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting Christian communities in Lebanon during the conference “Lebanon’s Future through Christian Eyes.” He highlighted the importance of local development, job creation, and education to help these communities thrive. The Minister also called for international efforts to facilitate the return of Syrian refugees and expressed Hungary’s readiness to contribute resources and host a development mechanism in Budapest.

The Hungarian government is committed to supporting Christian communities in the Middle East, with particular emphasis on Lebanon, as articulated by Péter Szijjártó, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, during the conference titled “Lebanon’s Future through Christian Eyes.” He emphasized that the current global landscape poses numerous dangers, significantly affecting the security of Central Europe, thereby prompting Hungary to express its interest in peace and stability in the region.

Lebanon’s unique position as a home to a thriving Christian community underscores its importance in this dynamic. Minister Szijjártó highlighted Hungary’s responsibility as a Christian state to safeguard these communities, particularly those enduring persecution and hardships. “Unfortunately, the Christians in Lebanon are also facing difficulties. Therefore, it is an important goal of ours to help, to maintain assistance to Christian communities in Lebanon,” he stated.

Furthermore, he articulated that assistance should focus on enabling these communities to remain in their homeland rather than dispersing them. Investing in job creation, education, and healthcare facilities is crucial. The Minister pointed out that the Hungary Helps program has allocated tens of millions of dollars for initiatives in the region, including the restoration of nearly 100 ancient Christian churches.

The Minister also addressed the pressing issue of Syrian refugees, suggesting that the international community must work towards their safe return. Over a decade, European colleagues have assured him of improved conditions following the ousting of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. “Now Assad is gone, so I think it is time for the international community to facilitate the return of Syrians who have been displaced to Lebanon,” he underscored.

Conclusively, Szijjártó stated the conference aims to foster a sustainable development mechanism for Lebanon, with a focus on empowering Christian communities. He expressed Hungary’s readiness to contribute resources towards this initiative and welcomed participation from the Lebanese diaspora and foreign entities. He concluded by expressing Hungary’s willingness to host the mechanism’s secretariat in Budapest.

The Hungarian government, under the leadership of Minister Péter Szijjártó, remains dedicated to supporting Christian communities in Lebanon, viewing their presence as integral to regional stability. By emphasizing the need for local empowerment and addressing refugee return, Hungary is positioning itself as a pivotal player in fostering long-term peace and development in Lebanon. The Minister’s commitment reflects a broader responsibility to uphold the rights and welfare of Christians facing challenges in the Middle East.

Original Source: hungarytoday.hu