Patr. John X Receives U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon at Balamand

BALAMAND, LEBANON — Patr. John X of Antioch and All the East received U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Michel Issa at the Patriarchal headquarters in Balamand on Aug. 11 for discussions on regional developments and current affairs.

The meeting was also attended by Dr. Elias Warraq, president of Balamand University, and Abp. George Yacoub, president of the Diocese of Balamand. The participants discussed the role of Balamand in fostering communication and cooperation in service to Lebanon.

Amb. Issa highlighted Balamand’s importance within the Patriarchate of Antioch and All the East and its contribution to the Church’s presence in Lebanon and throughout the region. He also spoke about the active presence of members of the Antiochian Church in North America.

The meeting comes as Lebanon and the wider Middle East continue to face significant political and regional challenges. The discussion between the Antiochian Patriarchate and the U.S. diplomatic representative provided an opportunity to address current affairs and the Church’s role in Lebanese society and the broader region.

Patr. John X welcomed the ambassador at the patriarchal headquarters, where the discussions also underscored Balamand’s role as a center of education, ecclesiastical life, and communication.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Patr. John X visited the earthquake-damaged Antioch Cathedral.