Youssef "Joe" Rajji (; born 20 November 1962) is a Lebanese diplomat who has served as minister of foreign affairs and emigrants in the cabinet of Prime Minister Nawaf Salam since February 2025. He previously served as Lebanon's ambassador to Jordan from 2022 to 2025.
Early life and education.
Rajji was born in Beirut on 20 November 1962. He holds a master's degree in Political and Administrative Sciences from Saint Joseph University of Beirut and a diploma in Media and Political Communication from the University of Paris. He is fluent in Arabic, English, and French.
Diplomatic career.
Rajji joined Lebanon’s diplomatic service in 1992. Key assignments include:
Foreign minister.
Rajji was appointed foreign minister in February 2025 as part of Prime Minister Nawaf Salam’s technocratic cabinet, formed amid Lebanon’s ongoing political and economic crises. He was appointed by the Lebanese Forces party. His appointment drew praise from international figures, including Kaja Kallas, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, who called his leadership "critical for regional stability."
Political positions.
Rajji has emphasized the need for Lebanon to maintain neutrality in regional conflicts and strengthen ties with Arab and European partners. He has also advocated for reforms to streamline consular services for the Lebanese diaspora.