BEIRUT: Lebanon has became a permanent member of the International Rugby League following Lebanese rugby enthusiasts' efforts to promote the sport in Lebanon and the Middle East.

International Rugby League Federation Chairman Scott Carter said that endorsing Lebanon as a full-status member rewards the country's strategic vision regarding the sport, which it has demonstrated over the past decade.

In 2011, Lebanon became a member of the European Rugby League.

Earlier, Lebanon had hosted five of six Middle East rugby tournaments, which featured the participation of the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Morocco.

The efforts of Lebanon's local Rugby League to drum up support for the game targeted Lebanese in the country, the Middle East and Australia, home to a large number of expatriates.