Beirut: Prime Minister, Dr. Nawaf Salam, on Monday held a meeting at the Grand Serail with a French economic delegation, which included leading French institutions and companies focused on reconstruction and urban modernization. The delegation was led by G©rard Wolf, President of the “Medef” (Movement of French Enterprises), and was attended by Minister of Economy and Trade, Amer Bisat, and French Ambassador to Lebanon, Herv© Magro.

According to National News Agency – Lebanon, G©rard Wolf announced that the French delegation, consisting of approximately 40 prominent French companies and organizations, arrived in Lebanon yesterday, marking the delegation’s return after a four-year hiatus. “We were pleased to hear about the progress in reforms, as confirmed by Prime Minister Salam, and the factors necessary for businesses, such as security and investments, were clearly outlined by Minister Salam,” Wolf said.

“We are here to bring the best modern and innovative technologies. We have known Lebanon for a long time, with many of our top companies already operating here, and we share a deep political, commercial, and industrial history,” Wolf added, emphasizing their intention to contribute to Lebanon’s modernization efforts by supporting critical sectors, including transportation, energy, health, and other vital industries.

In turn, Minister Bisat echoed Wolf’s sentiments, noting that the initiative was highly significant. “This is the first visit of this level in a long time, and it symbolizes the restoration of confidence in Lebanon from our brothers and friends abroad. It signals a growing interest in Lebanon,” he said. “Alongside Prime Minister Salam, we presented the reforms we have started, highlighting the renewed movement in the economy.”

Minister Bisat further elaborated on ongoing positive discussions with the World Bank, which will continue next week before the delegation heads to Washington. He also touched upon the upcoming investment conference scheduled for November 18 and 19, which the French delegation confirmed its participation in.

“The goal of this investment conference is to show the world and the private sector that Lebanon is returning to vitality and movement,” Minister Bisat stated. “We have named the conference ‘Beirut 1’ as it marks the beginning of a long journey toward reform and growth, God willing.”