President Michel Aoun of Lebanon welcomed Chaldean Patriarch Mar Paul III Nona to Baabda Palace during Nona's first visit to Lebanon following his election as patriarch. President Aoun congratulated him and wished him success in his new ecclesiastical responsibilities.
Patriarch Nona expressed gratitude to President Aoun, affirming the Chaldean community's support for the president's efforts to ensure Lebanon's stability and safety, and to protect its interests and the rights of its people. He emphasized, "Lebanon is our strategic depth; its stability is that of the entire region and its people."
The patriarch discussed the situation of Christians in Iraq following an invitation by the Iraqi Prime Minister for Christians who were forced to flee their country due to previous violent events to return, noting that such a return requires a stable environment.
President Aoun stressed the role of Christians in the Middle East and the importance of Christian-Muslim coexistence, stating that the region lost its moderation when Christians left due to wars and armed conflicts. He highlighted the collaboration between Lebanon and Iraq, appreciating the assistance the Iraqi government provided Lebanon, especially during challenging times caused by the Israeli war. He wished success for President Zaydi in his national responsibilities.
The meeting also addressed the conditions of the Chaldean community in Lebanon, with President Aoun affirming his commitment to support them and ensure their needs are met.
Accompanying Patriarch Nona were Bishop Michel Kassarji, head of the Chaldean community in Lebanon, Monsignor Raphael Traboulsi, general episcopal representative of the Beirut Chaldean Diocese, Mr. Antoine Hakim, head of the Supreme Council of the Chaldean Community, Mr. Vincent Zreika, head of the Chaldean Charitable Association, and several priests.