Remarks by Ambassador Chen Chuandong at Signing of Development Cooperation Agreement

Beirut, 15 May 2026

Your Excellency Engineer Mohamed Kabbani, President of Council for Development and Reconstruction,

Vice Presidents of CDR,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Friends from the media,

Sabah al-khair.

Today, as a testament of enduring friendship between China and Lebanon, we are going to sign a new Development Cooperation Agreement between the Government of the People’s Republic of China and the Government of the Republic of Lebanon.

As Lebanon suffers from severe impact of the ongoing conflict, compounded by an economic crisis, the Chinese Government and people stand in solidarity with Lebanon. Two weeks ago, two shipments of emergency humanitarian supplies provided by the Chinese Government arrived at the Port of Beirut, to help meet urgent needs. Today, China offers more support to Lebanon to promote sustainable development.

This is not something new. Over the years, our development cooperation has never ceased. China has provided assistance ranging from vehicles to solar systems, from technical assistance to human resources development, including the Lebanese National Higher Conservatory of Music. Each initiative embodies the sincere friendship of the Chinese people.

This is not giving. It is partnership, creating opportunities for shared development as Lebanon sits at a gateway for advancing the Belt and Road Initiative.

There is no catch. China’s assistance never comes with political strings attached. We respect the will of the recipient country. We give help, not lectures. Projects to be supported by the grant will be mutually agreed. They will be Lebanon-led and Lebanon-owned.

This is not giving fish, but giving a fishing rod. As a concrete step in implementing the Global Development Initiative proposed by President Xi Jinping, we place emphasis on strengthening Lebanon’s capacity for self-driven and sustainable development, pursuing a people-centered approach, based on the principles of inclusiveness and shared benefits.

This year, we proudly celebrate the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Lebanon. Over the past half century, our two countries have always treated each other with mutual respect and sincerity. Our friendship has always been marked by solidarity and mutual support through thick and thin. 

Dear friends,

Conflict and crisis may cast dark clouds over the sky, but the light of hope and solidarity can never be put out. China will, as always, remain a trustworthy friend and partner of Lebanon,and will continue to support Lebanon in safeguarding sovereignty, security and unity, and in its endeavors of reconstruction and development.

Thank you.