India and Lebanon have held their first-ever Foreign Office Consultations in New Delhi, marking an important step towards strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation across multiple sectors.
The discussions focused on enhancing political, security, economic and socio-cultural ties, while both sides exchanged views on regional and international developments of mutual interest.
The meeting was co-chaired by Sripriya Ranganathan, Secretary for Consular, Passport and Visa and Overseas Indian Affairs in the Ministry of External Affairs, and Ambassador Abdel Sattar Issa, Secretary-General of Lebanon’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the two delegations reviewed the full range of India-Lebanon bilateral relations and explored opportunities to deepen cooperation in areas of shared interest.
Trade and investment, digital public infrastructure and pharmaceuticals were identified as key priority areas for future engagement. Both sides also discussed regional and international issues, reflecting their shared interest in maintaining regular diplomatic dialogue.
The consultations build on a series of high-level engagements between the two countries in recent months. Earlier, in August, Sripriya Ranganathan met Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam and discussed ways to further strengthen the existing foundation of bilateral cooperation.
During her visit to Beirut, Ranganathan also held discussions with Ambassador Abdel Sattar Issa, reviewing the overall relationship and exploring additional areas of cooperation. The discussions included an exchange of views on the evolving regional situation.
The Indian diplomat also met Nabih Berri, President of Lebanon’s National Assembly. Their discussions focused on strengthening bilateral ties, including through parliamentary exchanges, as well as addressing regional developments.
The first Foreign Office Consultations provide an institutional platform for both countries to maintain regular diplomatic engagement and identify new opportunities for collaboration.
With discussions covering economic partnerships, technology, pharmaceuticals and political engagement, India and Lebanon are looking to broaden their cooperation and build on their longstanding bilateral relationship.
