The importance of the situation in Lebanon for Armenia goes beyond its regional significance. For centuries the Armenian nation has constituted part of the Lebanese and in general the Middle East mosaic, Armenian Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian said in his remarks delivered at the Ministerial Meeting on Support to Lebanon, the ministry’s press service said.

FM Nalbandian said today Lebanon hosts the largest Armenian community in the region, and continues to be one of the cultural and spiritual centers of our people. Traditionally Armenians have been active in all spheres of the social life in Lebanon, including the politics.

“Today they are represented both in the Government and in the Parliament. The Armenians shared the whole difficulties that befell on the people of Lebanon and look forward to make their contribution to the safe and secure future of the state. The Republic of Armenia stands by the people of Lebanon in reaching these aspirations,” the top Armenian official said.

Nalbandian stressed that on numerous occasions Armenia has expressed its support to the friendly people of Lebanon. It has been once again reiterated during the February official visit of the president of Lebanon to Armenia, as well as during the Armenian prime minister’s official visit to Lebanon three days ago.

He reminded that starting from November 2014 the Armenian platoon composed of 32 peacekeepers has been serving under the Italian command in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).

“It is with great sense of responsibility that Armenia has engaged in this mission seeking to contribute to the efficient activities of the UNIFIL aimed at ensuring peace in friendly Lebanon,” he said. “UNIFIL is not the only peacebuilding operation that Armenia has joined. The United Nations Assistant Secretary General for Peacekeeping Operations stated in this regard that “Armenia’s support is important not only for its contribution but also for the Armenian history and the challenges overcome during it”. Indeed, history teaches us that security is a common endeavor.”

Minister Nalbandian underscored that Armenia is looking forward to more effective cooperation with Lebanon in defense and security fields based on the precise proposals that are already on the table, as well as the new ideas.

“The role of Lebanon in the region is not limited to its strategic importance, but indeed, the traditional ethno-confessional colorfulness and the richness of historical-cultural heritage that it represents. These are universal values that require global protection,” the Armenian official concluded.