Dbayeh: The Indian Ambassador to Lebanon, Muhammad Noor Rahman Sheikh, along with his spouse Dr. Nazneen Rahman, organized a reception at Le Royal Hotel, Dbayeh, in celebration of India's National Day on January 27, 2026.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the event was graced by several dignitaries including the Chief Guest, Minister of Information Dr. Paul Morcos, who was representing the President of the Republic General Joseph Aoun. Other notable attendees included Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, President of the Council of Ministers Dr. Nawaf Salam, Minister of Youth and Sports Nora Bayrakdarian, and former Minister of Information Ziad Al-Makary. The occasion was also attended by Members of Parliament Said El Asmar and William Tawk, along with a significant number of ambassadors, members of the diplomatic corps, and prominent Lebanese figures from various fields.
The event commenced with the Lebanese and Indian national anthems, led by Lebanese International Soprano Maria Mattar. Ambassador Sheikh delivered a speech welcoming the attendees and emphasizing the strong ties between Lebanon and India. He highlighted the 72nd anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries and noted that the Indian Embassy in Lebanon has continued its operations despite Lebanon's challenging times.
Lebanon has been invited to participate in the 2nd India-Arab Foreign Ministers Meeting in New Delhi on January 31, 2026, reflecting the strengthening bilateral relationship. India has been a leading troop contributor to UNIFIL for 28 years, with the Indian Battalion, currently led by Colonel N. Gladson, playing a key role in peacekeeping efforts at the borders and fostering strong relationships with local communities.
The ambassador also outlined India's commitment to collaborating with Lebanon on various Quick Impact Projects. These initiatives include renovating public hospitals and sports stadiums, establishing IT labs, installing solar street lighting, providing motorcycles to municipal police, implementing waste management projects, supplying water pumps, and providing artificial limbs to approximately 500 Lebanese nationals.
The audience was captivated by Indian cultural performances, which featured martial arts, Rajasthani dance, and Bhangra dance performed by members of the Indian Battalion deployed at UNIFIL. The event concluded with a reception followed by a dinner featuring a blend of Indian and Lebanese cuisine.