From Naqoura to France: A New Partnership Puts South Lebanon on the Map

Naqoura is taking its story all the way to France! The stunning southern Lebanese town has officially entered a twinning and solidarity partnership with Creil, France, as part of a wider initiative aiming to connect towns in South Lebanon with European communities.

The partnership was announced earlier this month during the annual conference of France’s REV party, with Lebanese MP Halima El Kaakour, French MP Aymeric Caron, and representatives from Creil taking part. Kaakour has remained one of the few members of parliament keeping South Lebanon in focus, pushing through every channel available to her, from legislation to trips like this one, for the region’s full sovereignty. Naqoura’s mayor, Ibrahim Hamza, also joined through a video message to mark the occasion.

The initiative comes at a time when Naqoura and other towns and cities across southern Lebanon have suffered extensive destruction and occupation by enemy forces. The goal is to help preserve their history and local memory while creating direct links with communities abroad.

The partnership also sends a message of French solidarity with South Lebanon, highlighting the role of municipal cooperation in strengthening France-Lebanon relations while rejecting the ongoing violations of international law under the occupation.

The project aims to open up real exchanges between Naqoura and Creil, including collaboration between schools, cultural initiatives, exhibitions, and support for the rehabilitation of cultural centers. It could also give European officials, civil society groups, associations, and members of the Lebanese diaspora a closer look at life in Naqoura and the wider South.

Why are they twinning?

The two towns share a mild but interesting historical connection: Creil grew as a major railway hub linking northern France to Paris, while Naqoura once played a similarly important transit role, connecting regional routes across the Levant.

The bigger ambition lies in expanding the model and connect more southern Lebanese towns with European communities.

From cultural exchanges to preserving local archives and strengthening international solidarity, Naqoura and Creil are laying the groundwork for a partnership that could reach far beyond a signing ceremony.

And until every inch of South Lebanon is free, its story will continue to travel far beyond its borders.