UNIFIL’s Head of Mission and Force Commander Major General Stefano Del Col today paid a visit to Maronite Patriarch for Antioch and the East Cardinal Bechara Boutros Al-Rahi in Bkerke.

During the meeting, Major General Del Col commended the crucial role played by the Cardinal in carrying a message of peace and stability – which is essential to implementing UNIFIL’s mandate. He also thanked the Cardinal for his continuous and important support to UNIFIL’s work in south Lebanon.

“I expressed gratitude for the Cardinal’s valuable efforts and vital role in fostering dialogue and building bridges of communication with various religious groups,” said Del Col after the meeting. “This has had a pronounced impact on UNIFIL’s area of operations.”

Noting that religious values deserve the highest respect and consideration, Major General Del Col expressed his keenness to continuously engage with various religious leaders in a dialogue based on mutual respect and trust. Today’s meeting was one of a string of visits with religious leaders in south Lebanon and other parts of the country.