On the sidelines of the conference, El-Khoury held a series of important meetings, most notably with the Moroccan Minister of Industry, Ryad Mezzour, and the head of the Riyadh Chamber, Abdullah bin Abdul Rahman Al-Obaikan, with the participation of the head of the Association of Industrialists, Salim Al-Zoghbi. The meetings dealt with ways to enhance cooperation between the business sectors in Lebanon and Saudi Arabia through mutual visits. El-Khoury also communicated with officials at UNIDO and European ambassadors, who affirmed their readiness to provide assistance to Lebanon.
In media statements, El-Khoury affirmed that the Lebanese industrial sector has proven its ability to withstand crises, and that it represents a pillar of economic security. He pointed to the efforts made to develop alternative industries with the aim of reducing dependence on imports and increasing exports, within the framework of a national industrial strategy aimed at reducing production costs and benefiting from Lebanese resources. El-Khoury welcomed the return of direct Saudi participation in conferences held in Lebanon, stressing that Lebanon has “returned to the Arab fold” and is awaiting the return of the Gulf and Saudi brothers. (National News Agency)
