Sheikh, and his spouse Dr. Nazneen Rahman hosted a reception on the occasion of the National Day of India on 27 January 2026 at Le Royal Hotel, Dbayeh.

The reception was attended by the Chief Guest- Minister of Information Dr. Paul Morcos, representing the President of Republic General Joseph Aoun, Parliament Speaker H.E. Mr Nabih Berri, and President of the Council of the Ministers Dr Nawaf Salam. The Embassy also welcomed the Minister of Youth and Sports Nora Bayrakdarian and former Minister of Information Ziad Al-Makary, Members of Parliament Said El Asmar, representing the Head of the Lebanese Forces Party Samir Geagea, William Tawk, as well as a large number of Ambassadors and members of diplomatic corps, prominent Lebanese figures from political, military, academic, business and social fields, UNIFIL, INDBATT and Indian diaspora in Lebanon.

After the Lebanese and Indian national anthems which was led by Lebanese International Suprano Maria Mattar, Ambassador Sheikh delivered a speech, which he welcomed the attendees and praised the friendly relations between Lebanon and India, and the progress made at various levels. This year marks the 72nd Anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Lebanon and that the Embassy of India in Lebanon has always remained open despite challenging times that Lebanon faced. 

Lebanon has been invited to the 2nd India-Arab Foreign Ministers Meeting scheduled to be in New Delhi on 31 January, 2026. The bilateral relationship is on an upward trend.

India has been a top troop contributor to UNIFIL for the last 28 years. Ambassador also highlighted the continuous efforts of the Indian Battalion, currently led by Colonel N. Gladson, playing crucial role in peacekeeping at the borders and maintaining great rapport with the local communities. 

He also stated that India will continue to work with Lebanon to undertake various Quick Impact Projects in Lebanon including renovation of public hospital & sports stadiums, setting up of IT Labs, solar street lighting, providing motorcycles to Municipal Police, waste management project, supply of water pump, providing artificial limbs to about 500 Lebanese Nationals.

The audience was enthralled by magnificent Indian cultural performances which included Martial arts, Rajasthani dance and Bhangra dance by members of the Indian Battalion deployed at UNIFIL.

The event concluded with a Reception followed by dinner of India-Lebanese cuisine.