Lebanon is a long term member of the Arab League and has been the host of a number of summits. Lebanon is also a member of a number of Arab Social and Financial organisations. Lebanon's regional standing , especially in economic terms has been becoming more prominent subsequent to the end of the Civil war in 1991. As a result of Lebanon's credible Banking system and the country's cosmopolitan atmosphere, Lebanon has become the top destination for Arab investment, especially in the banking and construction sector.

In terms of politics, Lebanon has always been a prominent player in the Middle East political arena. Especially since Palestinian refugees and the PLO started arriving in the country in their earnest in the late 1960s. As a result of ensuing differences regarding their arrival, Lebanon entered into a civil war which since its start has militarily drawn some of the strongest countries in the Middle East such as Syria, Israel and indirectly Iran into its affairs. Israel occupied Southern Lebanon until 1999 when it withdrew its forces. Syria withdrew its forces in April 2005.

By: Meir Javedanfar- www.meepas.com

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