President of the Lebanese-Chinese Business Association Ali Mahmoud El Abdallah: On the occasion of the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of Lebanese-Chinese diplomatic relations, we have 50 years of trust between us and China, so w
President of the Lebanese-Chinese Business Association
Ali Mahmoud El Abdallah: On the occasion of the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of Lebanese-Chinese diplomatic relations, we have 50 years of trust between us and China, so why don't we develop relations?
By Ali Mahmoud El Abdallah
President of the Lebanese-Chinese Business Association
On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Lebanon and China this year, we recognize the unique characteristics of these relations, which lead us to reflect on their importance and the need to develop them further. China is a nation that stands with the just causes of all peoples, serving as a global reference in developmental policies, successful relationship-building, cooperation, and peace promotion.
Although Lebanon’s capacities are modest compared to China’s, our bilateral relations reach a distinguished international level. The leadership of both countries has always given utmost importance to developing these relations since the official establishment of diplomatic ties in 1971. Since then, relations have advanced significantly across all fields, particularly in cultural, economic, commercial, and social areas. Both countries share deep historical experience and rich cultural heritage: China has a history spanning over 5,000 years, while Lebanon has a long history in the Middle East and the world, having been home to numerous civilizations, including Phoenician, Assyrian, Persian, Greek, Roman, and Byzantine civilizations, among others.
The 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations should motivate us to deepen our relations and elevate them to higher levels. Bilateral relations have always been distinguished by cooperation across political, economic, social, and cultural fields. China has consistently shown concern for the welfare of the Lebanese people and their leadership through its policies toward Lebanon. The Chinese Embassy in Lebanon has played a pivotal role in strengthening these ties across all sectors, successfully building strong connections with all segments of Lebanese society.
A few months ago, Chinese Ambassador to Lebanon Qian Minjian emphasized during a bilateral meeting China’s interest in developing Lebanese-Chinese relations. He affirmed that he would do everything possible to strengthen these relations, which he described as “historic,” especially as we celebrate the 50th anniversary. We deeply appreciate the ambassador’s active efforts and look forward to collaborating with him to achieve further joint accomplishments. Lebanon, its people, leadership, and institutions have always expressed enduring appreciation for China’s role and its courageous and honorable positions in support of Lebanon’s unity, sovereignty, strength, and stability, as well as its commitment to peace in the Middle East.
Today, as we celebrate 50 years of Lebanese-Chinese relations, the Middle East is experiencing historic shifts in international presence and policy against the backdrop of a concerning global economic environment. We must remember that we live in a globalized economy, and it is not in anyone’s interest to isolate or close off cooperation, particularly with a major power such as China. China advocates open relations, especially with Lebanon and Arab countries, promoting a path of development, balanced foreign policy, global peace, and support for Arab causes, most notably the Palestinian issue.
Last year, Chinese authorities informed former Prime Minister Hassan Diab of their readiness to cooperate in electricity production with Chinese companies, as well as in other fields, including railways, water treatment, oil, waste management, and industrial project development. However, Lebanon has yet to take decisive action. Lebanon can play a role in the Belt and Road Initiative, given its strategic location along this route. Therefore, it is clear that Lebanese-Chinese relations have not yet reached a level that reflects the depth of ties between the two countries.
On this occasion, I reiterate that Lebanon has an opportunity to expand its relations with China across many economic sectors, including tourism. To illustrate the importance of Chinese tourism, consider that around 500,000 Chinese tourists visit Egypt annually; Lebanon could attract a significant portion of Chinese tourists if this sector is properly managed. Regarding trade, in 2019 Lebanon imported $1.6 billion from China while exporting only $12 million. In 2020, imports fell to $750 million, while exports rose slightly to $16 million. These modest figures can be significantly improved with political will. Lebanon is internationally known for industrial machinery, jewelry, and food products, and we can achieve positive developments in trade with China. We must focus on increasing exports rather than concentrating solely on imports.
For comparison, trade between China and Arab countries reached $144.27 billion in the first half of this year, up 25.7% year-on-year. Historically, trade between China and Arab countries rose from $36.4 billion in 2004 to $145.5 billion in 2010, reaching around $190 billion by the end of 2011.
It is also important to note Chinese grants and assistance to Lebanon. For decades, China has provided aid and support, including COVID-19 vaccines for the Lebanese people and military, assistance from the Chinese UNIFIL forces in port reconstruction, and support across multiple regions. Culturally, China has supported Lebanon by funding and equipping the Higher Institute of Music (National Conservatory) with a $30 million grant. Akkar also benefited from Chinese support for the development of student skills, including a grant to support the IT laboratory at the official Technical Institute in Tikrit. The list of Chinese assistance is extensive and continues across Lebanon.
We highly value China’s positions toward Lebanon in both economic and political spheres. We also respect China’s steadfast policies regarding all just causes, whether in Lebanon or the broader region. China is a model to emulate, particularly regarding the will of peoples, state sovereignty, unity, and economic, social, technological, and cultural progress. Lebanon must work to strengthen relations with China in alignment with its strategic national interests.