Historic Step for Lebanon: Establishment of International Migration Representation

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants Youssef Rajji and the Director General of the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), Ms. Suzanne Rab, signed the "Agreement between the Government of the Lebanese Republic and the International Centre for Migration Policy Development regarding the status of the Centre's representation in Lebanon," in a move aimed at institutionalizing cooperation between the two sides in the field of migration governance.

Minister Rajji affirmed in his speech that "the agreement constitutes additional evidence of Lebanon's commitment to continue strengthening friendship relations with the Centre and institutionalizing cooperation in the field of migration governance."

He reviewed the trajectory of this cooperation, which began with an initial agreement signed on March 11, 2002, followed by a memorandum of understanding on November 10, 2022, the year Lebanon joined the Centre's Board of Directors.

He stressed "Lebanon's firm belief in the necessity of ensuring safe, orderly, and regular migration, preserving the constructive role of migrants, while fully respecting state sovereignty and human rights," warning that "failure to do so leads to successive negative repercussions instead of benefiting from the opportunities offered by migration." He described the Centre as "a leading international organization led by member states and dedicated to finding practical and effective solutions for managing migration."

He confirmed "Lebanon's commitment to consolidating existing institutional partnerships within the framework of the MCP Med Training Institute," noting that "Lebanon records the highest number of certified trainers and looks forward to building a direct bridge enabling experts, institutions, and Lebanese citizens to engage in global initiatives related to migration."

For her part, the Director General of ICMPD affirmed that "the host country agreement signed provides a fundamental basis to ensure the continuity of the organization's presence and work, and will enable the Beirut office to operate effectively within and serve the host country, as well as launch broader and longer-term programs in a coordinated and integrated manner."

Rab considered that "this agreement is not only an important milestone in the organization's journey but also a practical responsibility resting on every team member, placing all their expertise at the service of the Lebanese Republic more firmly and effectively."

In conclusion, the Director General of the International Centre for Migration Policy Development presented a commemorative shield to Minister Rajji.