Upon her recent appointment as Ambassador Extraordinary & Plenipotentiary of the Lebanese Republic to the Republic of Cyprus, H.E. Mrs. Claude El Hajal presented her credentials to the Cypriot President in a formal ceremony held at the presidential palace, in Nicosia.
Receiving the credentials, President Anastasiades said:
“Your Excellency,
It is with great pleasure and sincere feelings of friendship that I receive today your Letters of Credence appointing you as the new Ambassador of the Lebanese Republic to the Republic of Cyprus.
On behalf of the Government and the people of Cyprus, I would like to assure you that we will provide every possible assistance in the performance of your high duties. I am looking forward to cooperating with you to further intensify and deepen the excellent relations between our countries.
Cyprus and Lebanon have historically enjoyed excellent bilateral relations and a mutually beneficial cooperation. For many centuries, our two peoples have interacted with each other in the eastern Mediterranean and enjoyed a harmony that enriched us both. I wish to assure you that my government is resolved to expand these sound relations, which are essential in ensuring stability, security and prosperity in our region.
We are aware of the many challenges Lebanon is facing. I would like to take this opportunity to reiterate that Cyprus, as a friend of Lebanon, will continue to support your country’s efforts to confront the challenges is faced with. Cyprus is committed to supporting the sovereignty, integrity and stability of Lebanon.
Cyprus acknowledges the continuous efforts of the country in fighting terrorism. In this context, I want to reiterate my country’s commitment in supporting the Lebanese Armed forces. I would like to once more commend the Government of Lebanon and the Lebanese people for their generosity in hosting more than 1.5 million Syrian refugees. We are fully aware of the impact this has placed on the Lebanese society.
At the same time, Cyprus, as an EU member state, stands ready to fully support the Lebanese Republic in its efforts to promote and diversify its relations with the European Union.
Excellency,
Taking this opportunity, I would like to reiterate our deep appreciation for the support of the Government of Lebanon to our efforts to end the unacceptable status quo and reunite our country and its people, in line with the relevant UN Council Resolutions, the EU values and principles, the High - Level Agreements between the leaders of the two communities and the Joint Declaration of February 11, 2014.
Excellency,
In welcoming you to Cyprus, I would kindly request that you convey to His Excellency President Michel Aoun, as well as to the friendly people of Lebanon our warmest greetings and a message of friendship and solidarity.”
“Ambassador El Hajal, I warmly welcome you to Cyprus and wish you a constructive and fruitful tenure.” With these encouraging words, the President of the Republic of Cyprus, H.E. Mr. Nicos Anastasiades marked the commencement of H.E. Mrs. Claude El Hajal’s mission as new ambassador of Lebanon to Cyprus.