Latest news with #LebaneseBusinessCouncil
L'Orient-Le Jour
2 days ago
- Business
- L'Orient-Le Jour
Aoun: Lebanon is not 'bankrupt,' but a 'stolen' country
President Joseph Aoun said on Thursday at Baabda Palace that "Lebanon is not bankrupt, but stolen," adding that "no country in the world goes bankrupt if it is properly managed. We have had governments that have mismanaged resources." The president was speaking before a delegation from the Lebanese Business Council in Abu Dhabi who had come to meet him at Baabda, on a day when he also presided over a judicial meeting with Justice Minister Adel Nassar and judges Souheil Abboud and Jamal Hajjar, and spoke with Finance Minister Yassine Jaber and the governor of the Central Bank (BDL), Karim Souhaid. Before the business council delegation, Aoun said that "our problem largely lies in corruption, as there has been no accountability. Today, justice is present, the files are open, and there are no bans or red lines. This is how things return to normal and confidence is restored between the state and the people, as well as between Lebanon and foreign countries." Since his election last January, the president has shown a willingness to break the deadlock on the important reform projects the country must launch to rebuild its shattered economy and financial system. 'The Lebanese imprint' Aoun also praised the role of the Lebanese diaspora around the world, which "has been the country's main support over the years." According to him, "the strength and wealth of Lebanon reside here: there is not a single major project, from Brazil to Australia via Africa, without a Lebanese imprint." His comments come at a time when many members of the diaspora no longer have access to their funds and savings, which have been illegally blocked in Lebanese banks since the start of the economic crisis in 2019. The real wealth of Lebanon does not lie in its "natural resources," but in "investment in its talents, skills, and human capital," he added, inviting the business council delegation to put their expertise at the country's service and to invest in it. 'Lebanon needs true justice' Aoun, the former commander of the army, also presided over a judicial meeting attended by Nassar, the president of the Supreme Judicial Council (CSM), Souheil Abboud, the public prosecutor at the Court of Cassation, Jamal Hajjar, as well as the new prosecutors appointed as part of the transfers and appointments. "You bear the responsibility to deliver justice and apply the law to all citizens, without distinction or exception. Never deviate from the truth, whatever the circumstances or pressures," he said. And he added: "The law stands above everyone, and its application must be just and fair for each person, from the highest official to the simplest citizen. Stay close to the people and their concerns, and work to restore citizens' confidence in justice through honest and transparent efforts. Lebanon urgently needs true justice, capable of rebuilding trust in institutions and protecting human dignity." Aoun also met with the finance minister and the governor of the BDL about "the country's financial situation."
Arab Times
28-06-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
Lebanese Business Council honors outgoing Chargé d'Affaires
KUWAIT CITY, June 28: In a gesture of loyalty and appreciation for his distinguished diplomatic career, the Lebanese Business Council in Kuwait organized a farewell ceremony in honor of Chargé d'Affaires at the Lebanese Embassy Ahmed Arafa, on the occasion of the end of his diplomatic mission in Kuwait and his appointment as Permanent Representative of the Lebanese Republic to the United Nations in New York. The ceremony was held under the patronage of Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Ambassador of Tajikistan to Kuwait Ambassador Zubaydullo Zubaydzoda. Representative of the Kuwaiti Ministry of Foreign Affairs from the Protocol Department Muhanna Al- Muhanna, members of the diplomatic corps, economic and social figures, and representatives of the Lebanese community attended the event to express their sincere appreciation for Arafa's contributions throughout his tenure in Kuwait. President of the Lebanese Business Council in Kuwait Ali Hassan Khalil delivered a heartfelt speech on behalf of the council and the Lebanese community. He said 'since assuming your duties, you have been a symbol of modern diplomacy. You combined political, economic and social representation. You are Lebanon's honorable voice abroad and a shining example of its values and morals. We will never forget your oversight of the rehabilitation of the Lebanese mission headquarters to become a unifying home for all Lebanese. Kuwait will not forget the 'Kuwait Needs Your Safety' campaign, which embodied your humanity and demonstrated the highest value of solidarity between the two brotherly peoples. Today we bid farewell to the Chargé d'Affaires ... to welcome the Permanent Representative of Lebanon to the United Nations, the bearer of the nation's message in international forums, with strong confidence in your ability to represent Lebanon with the highest levels of responsibility and competence.' Meanwhile, Arafa expressed his deep gratitude. He stated 'I stand today overwhelmed with the love of my friends and colleagues, and with the warmth of a country that embraced me as it embraces its own people. Kuwait has truly been my second home, with the generosity, authenticity and sincere love I have witnessed.' He extended his deep gratitude to the Lebanese community that he described as 'the beating heart,' emphasizing that it has been the best support and an honorable symbol for Lebanon. He added: 'I carry with me these memories, these relationships, and these values, to represent Lebanon at the United Nations, carrying its voice and true image based on dignity, justice, diversity and humanity.' Zubaydov, praised Arafa's professional and humanitarian qualities, emphasizing that he 'was an example of a professional and proactive diplomat who worked tirelessly to develop Lebanese-Kuwaiti relations and consolidate them. His fingerprints will remain firmly in the memory of the missions and the records of bilateral relations, especially after the success of the recent visit of His Excellency the Lebanese President to Kuwait, which he contributed to organizing and making a success in an effective manner.' The ceremony witnessed a remarkable interaction among the attendees who praised Arafa's professional and friendly behavior, and his continuous presence at various events of interest to the Lebanese community. At the end of the ceremony, an honorary shield was presented on behalf of the Lebanese Business Council, in appreciation of his efforts and as a token of love from his fellow citizens in Kuwait, with best wishes for his success in his new position in New York.
Arab Times
10-05-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
Kuwait set to host Lebanon president
KUWAIT CITY, May 10: Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, accompanied by an official delegation, is set to arrive in Kuwait on Sunday on an official visit, where he will hold official talks with His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al- Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. Meanwhile, Lebanese Foreign Minister Youssef Rajji said Saturday that the upcoming visit by Lebanese President Joseph Aoun will express deep appreciation and gratitude to the Kuwaiti people and leadership for their nonstop support to Lebanon. Speaking to KUNA, the minister underlined the significance of continued support extended by the State of Kuwait to the government and people of Lebanon under various circumstances, saying, 'Kuwait has always been supportive of Lebanon and a key partner of its development process.' The Lebanese official called for boosting cooperation protocols between the two countries, namely within commercial exchange and tourism, commending in this regard Kuwait's hosting of the large Lebanese community on its soil. Rajji hoped that the visit would meet the high expectations of both people, wishing for positive results furthering Lebanese-Kuwaiti ties. In related news, the Lebanese Business Council in Kuwait warmly welcomes President of the Lebanese Republic General Joseph Aoun during his official visit to the State of Kuwait. This visit is regarded as a significant event, symbolizing the robust and enduring fraternal relations between the two nations. Chairman of the council Ali Hassan Khalil stated that the visit, in response to the gracious invitation of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, exemplifies the mutual esteem held by the leaderships of both countries and presents a valuable opportunity to strengthen bilateral cooperation in multiple sectors. Khalil elaborated that the council, functioning as a vital economic and social entity for the Lebanese expatriate community, places considerable emphasis on fortifying bilateral relations. 'It actively supports the initiation of collaborative ventures and projects aimed at advancing the shared interests of Lebanon and Kuwait, leveraging the professional skills and expertise of Lebanese nationals residing in Kuwait,' he explained. He asserted that the visit of Aoun is a chance to reaffirm the commitment of Lebanon to strengthen its relations with Arab countries, especially Kuwait; grounded in the spirit of amity, mutual respect and reciprocal interests. Furthermore, the council expressed its deep appreciation for Kuwait's continuous support of Lebanon and its sincere gratitude to the Kuwaiti leadership and people for their hospitality towards the Lebanese community that endeavors to serve as a constructive and contributing element in the Kuwaiti society.
LBCI
24-02-2025
- Business
- LBCI
PM Salam discusses economic cooperation, development projects, and refugees in series of meetings
Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam met on Monday with a delegation from the Lebanese Business Council in Kuwait, led by Ali Hassan Khalil, to discuss ways to strengthen economic and cultural ties between the two countries. Salam thanked the council for its efforts and expressed hope for the return of Kuwaiti visitors to Lebanon, highlighting the deep-rooted relationship between both nations. He also noted the importance of the recent visit by Gulf Cooperation Council Secretary-General Jasem Al-Budaiwi and Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Abdullah Ali Al Yahya in boosting bilateral cooperation. Khalil, in turn, emphasized the council's role in promoting economic partnerships and investment, stating that the private sector remains committed to Lebanon's growth. He reaffirmed the council's support for the Lebanese government and encouraged stronger business ties between Lebanese and Kuwaiti companies. Salam also met with members of the National Moderation Bloc,' including MPs Sagih Atieh, Ahmad Kheir, Ahmad Rustom, and Walid Baarini. Discussions centered on the government's policy agenda, focusing on the development of Qlayaat Airport. A dedicated committee will be formed under Salam's leadership to oversee the project, which is expected to create 2000 jobs and stimulate economic growth in the Akkar region and beyond. Separately, MP Bilal Houshaymi met with Salam to discuss security measures at Beirut Airport and along the Lebanese-Syrian border, welcoming steps taken by the government. He also raised concerns over contractual university professors and undocumented Syrian students in Lebanese schools, calling for a clear resolution to these issues. In another meeting, Salam received Palestinian Ambassador to Lebanon Ashraf Dabbour, with talks focusing on the situation of Palestinian refugees in the country.
