Summary

Minister of Economy and Trade Dr. Amer Bisat visited the Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture in Sidon and South Lebanon, where he met with Chamber President Mohammad Hassan Saleh and members to discuss the challenges facing the commercial, industrial, agricultural, and economic sectors. During the meeting, Saleh emphasized the importance of developing the Port of Sidon into a fully operational commercial port to boost economic growth and create jobs. Minister Bisat highlighted Sidon's strategic role as the gateway to South Lebanon and reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting the city's development through a comprehensive long-term vision, with the port serving as a key driver of economic growth.

Description

Minister of Economy and Trade Dr. Amer Bisat Visits the Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture in Sidon and South Lebanon

The Minister of Economy and Trade, Dr. Amer Bisat, visited the Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture in Sidon and South Lebanon, accompanied by the Prime Minister’s Advisor for Reconstruction and Development, Dr. Sateh Arnaout, President of the Sidon and Suburbs Merchants Association Ali Al-Sharif, and Head of the Ministry of Economy’s South Lebanon Office Maysaa Hadraj.

The delegation was welcomed by the Chamber’s President, Mohammad Hassan Saleh, and members of the Chamber. During the visit, an extensive meeting was held in which the Minister listened to the concerns of the commercial and economic sectors, as well as issues related to agriculture and industry and the challenges facing the various productive sectors in the city of Sidon and South Lebanon.

Saleh

Opening the meeting, Mohammad Hassan Saleh, President of the Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture in Sidon and South Lebanon, welcomed Minister Bisat and said:

"I warmly welcome you to your home, in Sidon and South Lebanon—a region that has remained steadfast and resilient in the face of the fiercest Israeli attacks. Welcoming you today, as always, reflects our deep sense of solidarity and gratitude toward all government institutions for their support of the people of the South, many of whom were forced to leave their hometowns.

As you know, the city of Sidon has served as the heart of the South, opening its homes and facilities to displaced residents, which has significantly increased the city's needs.

Since your efforts are focused on achieving balanced development across all Lebanese regions, we hope that the Port of Sidon will be placed among the government's priorities, particularly by expanding its role and activities to allow the import and export of food products and other goods, instead of limiting its operations to importing cement and marble and exporting scrap metal.

Meeting all the necessary requirements to transform the Port of Sidon into a fully integrated commercial port would generate significant economic benefits for both the Lebanese state and the city. It would create direct and indirect employment opportunities for the people of Sidon and South Lebanon while helping reduce youth migration and emigration."

Bisat

Minister Dr. Amer Bisat then addressed the gathering, stating:

"Sidon's role is extremely important because of its strategic geographical location, connecting Beirut with South Lebanon, as well as its rich cultural heritage and strong economic significance. Sidon is the gateway to the South, and its port, together with its role as a commercial and industrial hub, its educational institutions, and its highly qualified human capital, gives it the potential to play a far greater role than it does today.

The concept of balanced development is fundamental. There is no reason why Zahle, Nabatieh, Beirut, or Tripoli alone should serve as the country's key regional centers. Sidon is also a city of great importance and must become an integral part of this balanced national development. The perception that Sidon is a neglected city is simply incorrect—it deserves and is capable of playing a much more significant role.

From this perspective, we need a comprehensive development vision that begins with the city's waterfront, particularly the port. It was no coincidence that we began our visit there, because Sidon's role today, especially during these difficult times, is pivotal. The city has carried a tremendous burden, and as a government we stand by its side and deeply appreciate the role it has played.

At the same time, Sidon should serve as the cornerstone of a long-term economic and development strategy. Once this difficult period comes to an end, we must rethink Sidon's economic, social, and cultural role, beginning with the waterfront and the port, alongside other development projects, since the port represents a fundamental pillar of the city's future growth."