Minister of Industry Joe Issa El Khoury visited the Association of Lebanese Industrialists, where he met with the association’s president, Salim Al-Zeenni, board members, and former presidents. During the meeting, the minister listened to presentations from the association regarding the challenges facing the industrial sector and the requirements for its development.

Salim Al-Zeenni

At the beginning of the meeting, Al-Zeenni welcomed Minister Issa El Khoury, emphasizing the strength and resilience of the industrial sector, which helped prevent the country’s collapse.

He highlighted that the stability of the sector has kept 250,000 Lebanese families in Lebanon, with the country losing only 2% of its industrial workforce during the crisis. Al-Zeenni stressed the importance of prioritizing the industrial sector as its development directly contributes to economic growth and job creation for Lebanese citizens.

Minister Issa El Khoury

For his part, Minister Issa El Khoury expressed his delight in this significant meeting, emphasizing the need to capitalize on the ongoing changes in Lebanon and the region in the industrial field.

He pointed out that industry has never been a priority in Lebanon’s economy, which traditionally relied on tourism and services. However, he stressed the necessity of transforming Lebanon into an industrial hub for both the regional and local markets by developing competitive Lebanese products.

The minister concluded by stating that the Ministry of Industry is a sovereign ministry, adding that sovereignty is not limited to security but extends to economic stability, food security, and beyond.

Discussion Session

A discussion session followed between the minister, the association’s president, board members, and former presidents. They reviewed the sector’s current concerns, challenges, and the necessary steps for its advancement.