The Department of Political Science at Haigazian University introduced on Tuesday, 27th of January, 2026, the Diplomatic Talk Series and hosted the first high-level diplomatic dialogue with His Excellency Ambassador Stöckle Stillfried, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Lebanon. The event brought together students, faculty, and guests for an open discussion on Lebanon, Palestine, and Syria, with a particular focus on security, internal reforms, international law, and regional stability.
During his discussion led by Dr. Alexandra Adams, the coordinator of the Political Science Department, the Ambassador reaffirmed that Germany enjoys strong and long-standing relations with Lebanon and remains fully committed to supporting the country’s state-building and institutional capacities. He highlighted Germany’s engagement in UNIFIL, particularly through the Maritime Task Force, which contributes to border control, maritime security, and the prevention of illicit arms transfers.
He underlined that Germany’s engagement goes far beyond security assistance, encompassing institutional support, development cooperation, humanitarian aid, diplomatic engagement, and support for governance and reform processes.
Addressing Lebanon’s internal security challenges, the Ambassador emphasized that Germany does not view cycles of violence or military escalation as sustainable solutions. Instead, he underlined the importance of diplomatic engagement and political processes, including efforts to gradually integrate all actors into state institutions. He also noted that Germany is ready to support the reconstruction of southern Lebanon, once a formal request is made by the Lebanese government, and continues to address ceasefire violations through diplomatic channels.
The Ambassador highlighted migration and displacement as a major concern for both Lebanon and Germany. He noted that Lebanon carries a heavy burden due to the Syrian refugee crisis, while approximately one million Syrian refugees currently live in Germany, underscoring the need for international burden-sharing and long-term political solutions.
On Palestine, the Ambassador reiterated that Germany supports the establishment of a Palestinian state and reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to international law and the authority of the International Court of Justice (ICJ). He confirmed that Germany participates in ICJ proceedings and will respect the Court’s rulings. He also confirmed that Germany has reduced arms exports that could be used in Gaza.
Regarding Syria, the Ambassador stressed that reconstruction is urgently needed, but that no concrete agreements are currently in place. He emphasized that any sustainable solution must involve inclusive diplomacy, taking into account the interests of key international and regional actors, including Russia and Turkey, and addressing the conditions necessary for the safe and voluntary return of refugees.
In his concluding remarks, Ambassador Stöckle Stillfried expressed his appreciation for the free and open nature of the discussion, noting that it reminded him of his own university years. He expressed the hope that students would remember this experience of intellectual freedom and open debate long after the event.
The event reaffirmed Haigazian University’s commitment to fostering critical dialogue, academic freedom, and engagement with international diplomacy.