Rome: Starting an official tour in the Vatican and Italy, Foreign Affairs Minister Youssef Rajji visited the Pontifical Maronite Institute in Rome, accompanied by a delegation including Lebanese Ambassadors to the Holy See, Fadi Assaf, and Italy, Carla Al-Jazzar.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Minister Rajji was received by the Patriarchal Vicar to the Holy See and Rector of the Pontifical Maronite Institute in Rome, Monsignor George Abi Saad; the Institute's Director, Monsignor Joseph Sfeir; several priests; members of the Pontifical Maronite Institute community; and members of the Lebanese expatriate community residing there. Rajji expressed his delight at visiting the institute and noted its significance in embodying the relationship between the Maronites and the Holy See.
Rajji highlighted the importance of the Maronite School and the Patriarchal Agency in Rome as symbols of Lebanon's message grounded in faith, pluralism, knowledge, openness, and peace. He commended the institute for its role in preparing pioneers who have promoted Lebanon's image globally and reinforced its role as a cultural meeting place.
Addressing the Lebanese community, Rajji emphasized the critical role of the Lebanese diaspora in fostering communication between Lebanon and the world. He stressed the significance of the diaspora in conveying Lebanon's cultural and humanitarian image and enhancing its presence in the societies where expatriates reside.
Rajji reiterated Lebanon's commitment to peace and the extension of state authority over all its territories. He emphasized the importance of consolidating stability to ensure a better future for all Lebanese citizens.