Hungary’s Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó affirmed the government’s ongoing support for Christian communities in Lebanon during the “Lebanon’s Future through Christian Eyes” conference. He emphasized Hungary’s responsibility to assist Christians facing challenges in the region. The focus is on creating stable living conditions and a development mechanism rooted in local support, alongside addressing the return of Syrian refugees.
The Hungarian government remains committed to supporting Christian communities throughout the Middle East, as stated by Péter Szijjártó, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade. During the conference titled “Lebanon’s Future through Christian Eyes,” he emphasized that the presence of Christians is vital for the cradle of Christianity, particularly in the context of regional security and stability for Central Europe.
Minister Szijjártó highlighted Lebanon’s unique role in this landscape, noting its significant Christian population. He articulated Hungary’s sense of obligation as a Christian state to assist those who are enduring hardships, particularly within Lebanon, where Christians face various challenges.
He remarked, “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 proposed that aid should not encourage Christians to leave their homes but should instead fortify them locally.
He underscored the importance of employment opportunities, educational facilities, and places of worship, emphasizing, “Jobs, schools, hospitals, churches. This is what is needed.” The Hungary Helps program has allocated nearly $20 million towards 38 initiatives in Lebanon, aimed at enhancing local living conditions, including the restoration of approximately 100 ancient Christian churches.
A pressing issue remains the return of Syrian refugees. Szijjártó asserted that once the appropriate political, security, and economic conditions are established, it is time for the international community to facilitate the repatriation of displaced Syrians.
He urged for direct dialogue on the matter, stating, “It is time to put aside political correctness and talk frankly and openly about this issue and lift this huge burden from Lebanon.” Additionally, the conference aims to establish a sustainable development mechanism for Lebanon, predominantly benefiting Christian communities.
Minister Szijjártó expressed Hungary’s readiness to contribute resources and hopes for cooperation with various stakeholders, including the Lebanese diaspora, businesses, and international partners. He concluded by offering to host the secretariat of this proposed mechanism in Budapest.
In conclusion, the Hungarian government is actively supporting Christian communities in Lebanon amidst challenging circumstances. Minister Szijjártó emphasizes the necessity of sustainable solutions, including providing local support rather than enabling emigration. He also calls for collaborative efforts from international communities to facilitate the safe return of Syrian refugees to ease Lebanon’s burdens. The formation of a development mechanism centered on Christian communities represents Hungary’s ongoing commitment to this cause.
Original Source: hungarytoday.hu
