Strengthening Economic Ties: The UAE Delegation's Mission to Lebanon
In a significant move underscoring its commitment to international collaboration and sustainable development, the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) has embarked on a pivotal mission to Lebanon as part of an official delegation from the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The primary objective of this high-level visit is to fortify economic ties and foster strategic partnerships that are essential for Lebanon’s growth trajectory amidst its current challenges.
This initiative is framed within the broader context of a previous meeting between President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of the UAE and President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon, which took place earlier in May 2023. During that meeting, the leaders engaged in discussions focused on expanding cooperation across vital sectors, including economics, investment, and governance. Such dialogues reflect a shared understanding of the need for robust collaboration to address Lebanon’s pressing economic issues, which have been exacerbated by longstanding political and financial instability.
Following this high-level engagement, the ADFD was mandated to send a delegation to assess potential joint projects. Concurrently, the UAE’s Knowledge Exchange Office organized a visit to Beirut, where it aimed to share best practices in government performance and institutional excellence. This three-day visit involved not just discussions but also active engagement between senior UAE officials and Lebanon’s leadership, underscoring a commitment to collaborative solutions that could catalyze Lebanon’s economic recovery and future growth prospects.
Key discussions took place with President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Dr. Nawaf Salam, focusing on enhancing bilateral cooperation in various sectors. Notably, the meetings extended to several ministerial departments, including Finance, Energy and Water, Education, Health, Public Works, Telecommunications, and Interior, reflecting a comprehensive approach to identifying areas for mutual collaboration.
The delegation’s engagement extended beyond government leadership to include nationally significant institutions such as the Central Bank of Lebanon, the Higher Relief Council, and the Council for Development and Reconstruction. A particularly noteworthy session was held at the Banque de l’Habitat (Housing Bank) in Beirut, aimed at discussing cooperation in providing concessional loans to facilitate affordable housing solutions. This initiative is crucial as Lebanon grapples with a housing crisis that has only intensified in recent years, particularly following the economic downturn and challenges faced by citizens to secure safe and reasonable housing options. Both parties have committed to further discussions in Abu Dhabi to ensure the effective implementation of these initiatives.
Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director-General of ADFD, articulated the significance of this mission, stating, “The Fund’s participation underscores the UAE’s commitment to supporting friendly nations, continuing its leading role in fostering international cooperation.” He emphasized that the ADFD’s partnership with Lebanon has been longstanding, covering over five decades and including strategic development projects in crucial sectors such as infrastructure, education, energy, and healthcare.
In an era where Lebanon continues to navigate substantial economic hurdles, Al Suwaidi’s remarks carry great weight. He remarked that the UAE’s presence in Lebanon reflects its deep commitment to assisting the government in addressing economic challenges while enhancing the quality of life for the Lebanese people. This commitment encompasses leveraging UAE’s expertise and partnerships to facilitate sustainable solutions that align with Lebanon’s aspirations for recovery and reconstruction.
The engagement culminated in the Knowledge Exchange Forum, where Prime Minister Dr. Nawaf Salam acknowledged the instrumental role of the ADFD in supporting Lebanon’s development since the 1970s. He emphasized that the Fund has been a trusted partner throughout various phases of the nation’s progress, contributing to meaningful improvements across vital sectors. Furthermore, site visits to pivotal locations such as the Port of Beirut, Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport, and various public service institutions illustrated the delegation’s focus on assessing immediate priorities and determining potential collaborative efforts.
In summary, the recent visit by the UAE delegation, championed by the ADFD, signifies a proactive approach toward strengthening bilateral relations between Lebanon and the UAE. It highlights an enduring belief in partnerships grounded in mutual assistance, knowledge sharing, and sustainable development that can lead Lebanon toward a more prosperous future.
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