LBC honors Lebanese Chargé d’Affaires Arafa ahead of UN mission

The Times Kuwait Report

The Lebanese Business Council (LBC) in Kuwait hosted a grand farewell ceremony in honor of the outgoing Lebanese Chargé d’Affaires Ahmad Arafa, marking the end of his diplomatic tenure in Kuwait as he prepares to take up his new post as Lebanon’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York.

The event was held under the patronage of the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Tajikistan’s Ambassador to Kuwait, H.E. Dr. Zubaydullo Zubaydov, in the presence of Mehna Al-Mehna, representative of the Kuwaiti Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The event, attended by several dignitaries, diplomats, Lebanese expatriates, and members of Kuwait’s economic and social sectors, featured heartfelt speeches reflecting the deep appreciation for Arafa’s distinguished service.

In his remarks, Ambassador Zubaydov praised Arafa as “a dear colleague and brother” whose professionalism, warm demeanor, and tireless participation in diplomatic and community events left a lasting mark. “He played a key role in enhancing bilateral ties between Lebanon and Kuwait and strengthening the bonds among accredited diplomatic missions,” Zubaydov noted.

Ali Hassan Khaleel, President of the Lebanese Business Council, commended Arafa for embodying the spirit of modern diplomacy. “Ahmad, you weren’t merely a diplomatic figure — you were Lebanon’s shining face abroad, known for your values, integrity, and compassion,” he said.

Khaleel highlighted Arafa’s vital contributions, such as supporting the Lebanese community, reviving the embassy’s premises as a welcoming space for all, and launching the “Kuwait Wants You Safe” campaign — an initiative that united Lebanese and Kuwaitis in a shared humanitarian moment.

In a deeply emotional speech, Arafa expressed his sincere gratitude for the honor and warm farewell. “I stand before you filled with love and gratitude, embraced by a country that welcomed me as one of its own,” he said, offering heartfelt thanks to Kuwait’s leadership and people.

He affirmed that his relationship with Kuwait transcends diplomacy: “I have been — and always will be — a representative of a people who consider Kuwait their second home, not just in words but in heart and spirit.”
Arafa paid a special tribute to the Lebanese community, calling them “the beating heart and the true image of a progressive Lebanon.” He also thanked the Lebanese Business Council for its enduring partnership in humanitarian efforts and acknowledged his family’s support.

As he prepares for his next mission at the United Nations, Arafa emphasized, “This is not just a personal appointment — it’s a national duty to carry Lebanon’s voice to the world: the voice of justice, dignity, diversity, and humanity.”

The farewell ceremony stood as a poignant testament to the bonds forged between peoples and nations through sincere service and human connection — proving that while positions may change, the impact of dedicated diplomacy endures.