Beirut (TDI): Pakistan’s Ambassador to Lebanon, Salman Athar, held pivotal meetings with Lebanese Minister of National Defense, Michel Menassa, and the newly appointed Commander of the Lebanese Armed Forces, General Rodolph Haykal, to enhance defense collaboration, address pressing regional security concerns, and brace bilateral defense ties.
During his meeting with Minister Menassa, Ambassador Athar emphasized the longstanding defense ties between Pakistan and Lebanon, highlighting opportunities for joint training programs, intelligence sharing, and strategic dialogues.
Both officials reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening military cooperation to ensure regional stability.
Amb Salman Athar called on H.E. Michel Manassa, Minister of National Defence of 🇱🇧 and Gen Rodolph Haykal, Chief of 🇱🇧 Army. Discussed 🇵🇰🇱🇧defence cooptrn & the regional situation emerging after unprovoked & cowardly 🇮🇳attacks targeting civilian areas in🇵🇰& AJK @ForeignOfficePk pic.twitter.com/SmDzY72sc0
— Pakistan Embassy Lebanon (@PakinLebanon) May 8, 2025
In his discussion with General Haykal, Ambassador Athar extended congratulations on his recent appointment and expressed Pakistan’s support for Lebanon’s efforts to bolster its defense capabilities.
General Haykal, who assumed command in March 2025, is known for his extensive military experience and leadership in various critical operations.
A significant focus of the meetings was the evolving security situation in South Asia, particularly the recent incidents along the Line of Control (LoC) between Pakistan and India after the Pahalgam Attack on April 22, 2025.
Ambassador Athar briefed the Lebanese officials on the unprovoked attacks targeting civilian areas in Pakistan, expressing concern over the escalation and its implications for regional peace.
Minister Menassa and General Haykal acknowledged the gravity of the situation and underscored the importance of diplomatic engagement and adherence to international norms to resolve conflicts.
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They reiterated Lebanon’s stance on promoting peaceful resolutions and the significance of upholding human rights.
These high-level engagements aimed at mutual commitment to deepening Pakistan-Lebanon defense relations and collaborating on shared security challenges.
Both countries expressed their desire to work together to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in their respective regions.
Areeba Kanwal is a contributor at The Diplomatic Insight and has passion for International Relations and diplomacy.
