Lebanon–Mexico relations

Lebanon-Mexico relations

Lebanon

Mexico

Lebanon-Mexico relations refers to the diplomatic relations between Lebanon and Mexico.

Diplomatic relations

Embassy of Lebanon in Mexico City

Relations between Mexico and Lebanon stretch further before their official establishment of diplomatic relations. Since 1878, several thousand Lebanese migrants left their homes, which during that time was under Ottoman occupation and later followed by French colonization; and immigrated to Mexico.[1] Today, over 500,000 people in Mexico are of Lebanese origin ranking Mexico the fourth biggest country hosting a Lebanese community outside of Lebanon.[2]

After gaining independence from France in 1943; Lebanon and Mexico established diplomatic relations on 12 June 1945. In 1947, diplomatic missions were established in each countries capitals respectively, and ambassadors were appointed.[3] In 1975, Lebanon experienced a civil war and for security reasons, the embassy of Mexico in Beirut closed in June 1982 to only re-open in 1996.[4] Since then, Mexico has maintained an embassy in Lebanon throughout the various violent outbreaks in Lebanon and during Israeli attacks in the country.[3]

In 2000, Mexican foreign secretary Rosario Green became the highest ranking Mexican official to ever visit Lebanon. In September 2010, Lebanese President Michel Sleiman became the first Lebanese head of state to pay an official visit to Mexico meeting with then Mexican President Felipe Calderón.[5]

Trade relations

Trade between the two nations remains modest. In 2014, total trade amounted to $16.9 million USD.[6] The Lebanese-Mexican community is responsible for 10% of GDP in Mexico.[2]

Resident diplomatic missions

See also

References

External links

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