Belgian Ambassador Arnaud Pauwels, accompanied by Chargé d’Affaires Pierre-Louis Renard, set out on a field visit to Arqoub and Khiam — a journey that carried more than diplomatic symbolism. Amid the ruins left by war, something luminous persisted: the steadfast will of people to live, sustained by the compassionate hands of Amel Association International.
From Destruction to Renewal
At the Arqoub Health and Social Center — once scarred by war and now reborn through community determination — Ambassador Pauwels was received by Dr. Kamel Mohanna, Founder and President of Amel Association International, along with Mufti Hassan Dalleh, local mayors, and representatives from partner organizations. Thanks to collective effort and the spirit of solidarity, the center once again stands as a refuge for hundreds of families from surrounding villages.
Touring the facility, the ambassador met with Amel’s dedicated team, learning about programs in primary healthcare, psychosocial support, women’s empowerment, and community awareness. Pausing before a photograph of children playing in a courtyard once marked by conflict, he reflected:
“Working in areas affected by war is a living testimony to people’s ability to turn pain into the energy of life.”
Human Dignity as an Act of Resistance
Dr. Mohanna emphasized that Amel’s presence in border and conflict-affected communities is a moral and humanitarian stance:
“Amel doesn’t only deliver programs — it builds a culture of life. We believe that defending human dignity is an act of resistance, and that development is the truest path toward freedom and stability.”
He also highlighted the long-standing partnership between Amel and Belgium, rooted in shared values rather than mere projects:
“What unites us is our belief that human dignity is indivisible, and that defending it is a collective responsibility in the face of war, discrimination, and double standards.”
Khiam: Rebirth from the Ashes
The second stop was Khiam, where the delegation was welcomed by Mayor Abbas Youssef Ali and Amel’s local team. The Khiam Health and Social Development Center — once nearly destroyed — now stands proudly rebuilt, a living symbol of resilience and the will to rebuild.
Dr. Mohanna noted:
“This center has always been a frontline of human solidarity against devastation. Today, it rises again thanks to the efforts of local residents, Amel’s team, the municipality, and our partners — first and foremost, the Kingdom of Belgium.”
A Call for Justice, Not Sympathy
Concluding the visit, Dr. Mohanna urged the international community to support Lebanon in reclaiming its sovereignty and rebuilding what war has destroyed:
“Lebanon does not need pity — it needs justice. The world must take a clear stand and pressure Israel to end its continuous violations that drag the region into further chaos and destruction.”
He reaffirmed Amel’s commitment to its mission, operating over 40 centers and 24 mobile clinics across Lebanon, led by 2,300 staff and volunteers, all inspired by the belief that “human beings come first, and that freedom and social justice are the foundation of every renaissance.”
Belgium: Proud Partner in Humanity
Ambassador Pauwels expressed his admiration and gratitude, stating:
“What we see in these centers is a model of humanity in times of crisis. Teams like Amel’s give us hope that Lebanon will always rise again, no matter the hardship. Belgium is proud of this partnership and will continue to stand by all those who work for human dignity.”
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