Jounieh: As part of the closing events marking the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Mexico and Lebanon, the Embassy of Mexico in Lebanon, in collaboration with the Municipality of Jounieh, inaugurated "Heartbeat of Two Lands," a pair of large-scale murals by Mexican artist Paola Delfn.
According to National news agency - Lebanon, the ceremony brought together distinguished representatives and friends of both nations, including H.E. Ambassador Sami Nmeir, Director of Emigrants, representing the Minister of Foreign Affairs Emigrants, Youssef Rajji; Mrs. Sethrida Nabhan, District Commissioner (Kaemakam) of Keserwan-Ftouh, representing General Ahmad Al Hajjar, Minister of Interior and Municipalities; Member of Parliament Farid Haykal Al Khazen, His Excellency Bishop Boulos Rouhana, Bishop of the Maronite Archdiocese of Sarba, and Major Abdel Kader Chebbo, representing General Moussa Karnib, Head of Security for Embassies and Public Administration, among others.
Francisco Ernesto Romero Bock, Ambassador of Mexico to Lebanon, emphasized the cultural and symbolic significance of the project, describing the murals as a lasting tribute to eight decades of friendship between Mexico and Lebanon. He noted that "Heartbeat of Two Lands" not only concludes a year of commemorative activities but also stands as a vibrant artistic expression of the shared history and connections binding the two nations. Furthermore, he underscored that this initiative aligns with the priorities of Mexico's Feminist Foreign Policy, which this year places special emphasis on recognizing the role of women as agents of change in societies.
Faysal Frem, President of the Municipality of Jounieh, highlighted the importance of the murals' location in one of Lebanon's most visible and frequently visited areas, noting that the artwork serves as a living testament to the strong and enduring ties between both countries. He added that the project reflects the meaningful role of migration in enriching both Lebanese and Mexican societies.
Artist Paola Delfn explained that the murals are inspired by the iconic Mexican painting "Las dos Fridas" by Frida Kahlo. The first wall portrays a Lebanese migrant arriving in Mexico, bearing symbols of her heritage, including a historic photograph representing early Levantine families who settled there. The second wall depicts a Mexican woman in Lebanon, sharing the cultural richness of her homeland. Together, the two figures express the feminine face of migration; an experience that has shaped and continues to shape the bilateral relationship through culture, memory, and human exchange.
With "Heartbeat of Two Lands," Mexico and Lebanon reaffirm their commitment to cultural collaboration, offering the public a landmark that celebrates eight decades of shared history and the enduring friendship uniting the two nations.