The Ministry of Justice organized a high-level conference on international cooperation in combating serious and transnational crime, emphasizing the country’s commitment to strengthening judicial capacity and the rule of law.

Titled “Justice Without Borders: Enhancing Cooperation Against Cross-Border Crime”, the event was held at the Beirut Bar Association's headquarters and brought together Justice Minister Adel Nassar, Bar Association President Imad Martinos, Eurojust President Michel Schmid, European Union representatives, Judge Mirna Kallas of the Public Prosecution Office at the Court of Cassation, as well as senior judges, lawyers, and legal experts.

The conference highlighted the pivotal role of international judicial cooperation in addressing organized crime and the importance of coordinated efforts between Lebanon’s Ministry of Justice, Eurojust, the Court of Cassation, and the Bar Association to enhance the effectiveness of investigations.

In his keynote address, Nassar said Lebanon is reclaiming its place among the nations.

“This conference builds on our cooperation agreement with Eurojust and the European Union and reflects Lebanon’s broader efforts to reestablish itself as a state governed by law and strong institutions,” he said. “A key milestone in that process is restoring the exclusive authority to use force to public institutions. Without that, the powers of the state remain constrained by factional interests and sectarian agendas.”

He stressed that justice is the cornerstone of state-building.

“Emile Zola said, ‘Truth and justice are sovereign, for they alone guarantee the greatness of nations.’ Strengthening the judiciary and protecting it from outside interference is essential. Judicial independence is crucial, not just because it is the natural path to justice, but because justice builds trust between citizens and the state. Ultimately, a functioning rule-of-law State, in the eyes of its people and the world, depends on an effective and independent judiciary.”

Nassar placed Lebanon’s efforts in a broader historical perspective, noting that humanity’s post-World War II drive toward international cooperation and peace has often been undermined by renewed extremism and narrow self-interest.

“Lebanon has endured decades of conflict,” he said. “Even if atrocities fade from memory, ignoring the darkest chapters of our history risks weakening the foundations of international law, leaving us, like sleepwalkers, in the grip of blind violence.”

The minister acknowledged that threats from force and fear continue to challenge progress but stressed that Lebanon has chosen to resist.

“We can empower men and women of good will to get us back on course,” he said. “Through solidarity, we replace force with justice. We resisted occupations, affirmed coexistence, and demonstrated that engagement among all segments of society is the best response to intolerance and exclusion. Alongside the European Union, we are united in our diversity.”

A central theme of the conference was Lebanon’s cooperation with Eurojust, which Nassar described as a vital tool for addressing complex, cross-border cases. Article 7 of the Eurojust agreement allows for the creation of joint investigation teams with EU member states and provides financial and technical support for their operations.

“By forming these joint teams, we can tackle cases that go beyond our national borders,” Nassar said. “This strengthens the judiciary’s capacity and underscores our responsibility to support it. At its core, the Eurojust agreement combines two essential priorities: fighting crime through cooperation and upholding fundamental principles, including the protection of personal data. Combating crime does not justify cutting corners. As Albert Camus said, ‘If man cannot reconcile justice and freedom, he fails in everything.’”

Nassar concluded by reaffirming Lebanon’s commitment to international cooperation and the rule of law.

“Today, Lebanon opens a new chapter in the fight against crime, in the pursuit of justice, and in defending the rule of law,” he said.