The Ministry of Justice and the International Committee of the Red Cross signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at enhancing cooperation between the two parties in the field of international humanitarian law. This memorandum includes organizing joint activities such as seminars, workshops, and conferences to support the Judicial Studies Institute and exchange important legal information. The signing ceremony was attended by Lebanese officials, including the caretaker Minister of Justice Henry Khoury, the General Director of the Ministry of Justice Judge Muhammad al-Masri, the presidents of the Court of Appeals at the Justice Palace in Beirut and other provinces, along with a gathering of judges. A delegation from the International Red Cross was present, headed by the head of the Red Cross mission in Lebanon, Simon Casabianca Ashleymann.
Both parties expressed hope that this memorandum would represent the beginning of fruitful and lasting cooperation that enhances the ability of judges and legal professionals to handle complex and sensitive issues related to international humanitarian law. The Minister of Justice emphasized the importance of this ongoing cooperation, which has a long history, explaining that the current conditions in the region increase the significance of deepening the judicial body's understanding of the principles of international humanitarian law.
He stated, "The cooperation between the Ministry of Justice and the International Committee of the Red Cross in Lebanon has long existed, and one aspect of this cooperation was the massive workshop that included more than thirty judges driven by their scientific curiosity to participate in it to learn more about the principles of international humanitarian law from specialists in this field, especially since the current circumstances affecting the region have created many questions for many regarding this topic."
He added, "In our relentless pursuit to establish the principles of international humanitarian law, we meet today again to affirm the ongoing cooperation between the Ministry of Justice and the International Committee of the Red Cross, a bearer of the banner of this law and a constant seeker to implement it, especially in times of war and armed conflicts."
He continued, "Thus, the idea of signing this memorandum of understanding between the Ministry of Justice and the International Committee of the Red Cross was born, as it has now become the foundation for these joint efforts, hoping that one day we will live in a better world where all the noble humanitarian principles that have been called for since long ago are respected, at least since the drafting of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948."
He stated, "Accordingly, it was agreed that the memorandum would address the issue of international humanitarian law due to its great importance and the difference it could make if given sufficient attention and support. Perhaps what is currently happening in the region, particularly in southern Lebanon, is tangible evidence of the truth of our words."
He concluded, "Finally, I can only welcome you all once again to our ministry, thanking you for your cooperation and hoping that this will be the cornerstone for promising future projects, God willing."
For her part, the head of the International Committee of the Red Cross mission in Lebanon confirmed the committee's commitment to protecting and assisting those affected by armed conflicts, noting that the Ministry of Justice plays a vital role in upholding the rule of law and protecting citizens' rights, including respect for international humanitarian law.
