Paris: The 2026 Arab-European Banking and Economic Summit opened in Paris under the theme "Towards a New Global Economic and Financial Balance," bringing together senior financial, banking, and government leaders from across Europe and the Arab world.

According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Lebanese Finance Minister Yassine Jaber stressed that geopolitical tensions, energy security challenges, and global financial fragmentation are reshaping the international economy. He underscored the importance of Euro-Arab cooperation in strengthening economic resilience, investment, and regional stability.

Addressing Lebanon's situation, Jaber said the country remains committed to governance, fiscal, and financial sector reforms despite the severe human and economic toll of the ongoing conflict. He described an IMF-supported program as a cornerstone of Lebanon's recovery strategy and emphasized that sustainable reconstruction and economic revival require a lasting cessation of hostilities and long-term stability.

The summit is organized by the Union of Arab Banks under the patronage of French President Emmanuel Macron.