Baghdad, Iraq – Lebanese Minister of Labor Mohammed Haidar affirmed on Saturday that the relationship between Lebanon and Iraq remains strong and deeply rooted, citing historic bonds and current efforts to foster greater collaboration, especially in investment and labor.
He emphasized that the new Lebanese government’s approach toward Baghdad reflects mutual respect and long-standing fraternal ties. He recalled the support shown by Iraqis to Lebanese citizens during past regional conflicts, highlighting the human and political solidarity shared by the two nations.
Minister Haidar also noted the Lebanese Prime Minister’s commitment to further strengthening ties with Iraq, aligning with the aspirations of the Lebanese people. He referenced the recent visit by Lebanon’s Director-General of General Security, aimed at enhancing security cooperation, promoting service exchange, and advancing oil import agreements between the two countries.
On economic cooperation, Haidar pointed to promising developments in Lebanon’s energy sector, particularly Iraq’s potential role in supplying fuel to help revitalize Lebanon’s power infrastructure.
He further mentioned plans for a regional tour by Lebanon’s Army Commander, which includes a scheduled visit to Iraq. The Lebanese delegation is also expected to participate in the upcoming Arab Summit in Baghdad, underscoring Lebanon’s intent to engage actively with Iraqi leadership on matters of mutual interest.
Minister Haidar reaffirmed the Lebanese government’s intention to uphold existing agreements with Iraq’s Ministry of Labor, while remaining open to revisions through mutual coordination. He is scheduled to meet his Iraqi counterpart next week to explore ways to improve employment opportunities for both Lebanese workers in Iraq and Iraqi workers in Lebanon.
He also addressed the need for balanced labor rights. While foreign workers in Lebanon currently receive partial health coverage, this may be expanded to Iraqi nationals if Lebanese workers in Iraq are shown to receive comprehensive benefits, in accordance with the principle of reciprocity.
Additionally, he highlighted a detailed assessment of Lebanon’s labor market to identify sectors in need of skilled foreign workers, with the aim of providing Iraqi workers with guidance on where their expertise is most needed.
The Minister expressed optimism about renewed investment from Iraq, encouraging Iraqi entrepreneurs to return to Beirut and help revitalize Lebanon’s economic role in the region. He noted that security conditions are improving and the environment is becoming more conducive to launching new projects.
Clear information regarding residency and employment for Iraqis in Lebanon, he said, is available through official government channels to ensure transparency and ease of access.
Minister Haidar acknowledged delays in joint projects due to internal and geopolitical challenges, including the halted activation of the oil pipeline connecting Iraq to northern Lebanon. The project remains stalled due to transit requirements through neighboring countries.
Despite these challenges, he reiterated Lebanon’s commitment to advancing projects that benefit both nations and the wider region. He concluded by stressing the government’s adherence to international law and its preference for diplomatic solutions, while warning that this approach cannot be sustained indefinitely in the face of continued violations by hostile actors.
