Beirut: In an interview with Radio Lebanon, Minister of Agriculture Nizar Hani expressed optimism regarding the future of Lebanon’s agricultural sector, which has been impacted by recent events in Syria. Hani noted that there is hope for appointing a new governor for the Central Bank of Lebanon before the month’s end, alongside completing other necessary appointments to restructure ministries and the public sector.
According to National News Agency – Lebanon, Hani emphasized efforts to boost efficiency within ministries and address vacancies in the Ministry of Agriculture through a mechanism established by the Council of Ministers. On the export front, Hani revealed that agreements with Saudi Arabia have been updated, facilitating the exchange of agricultural crops and opening Saudi markets to Lebanese products. The agreements also focus on cooperation in afforestation, forest protection, and regulation of wholesale markets, with Lebanon adopting high standards for agricultural exports.
Hani acknowledged that Lebanese agricultural exports had been affected by the situation in Syria, but expressed confidence that the path to a solution is underway. Lebanese goods are now passing through Syria to Jordan and Iraq, and a four-party agreement involving Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and Iraq is in the works to review agricultural calendars and needs. Additionally, cooperation with Egypt is being developed, particularly regarding potato exports, and Jordan has shown interest in importing Lebanese meat.
The minister announced plans to visit Syria and other countries to bolster Lebanese agricultural exports. Starting next week, field teams from the Ministry of Agriculture will inspect 350 villages affected by Israeli aggression to assess the damage. Support programs, funded externally, aim to salvage the agricultural season, with hopes for future infrastructure restoration funding.
Hani concluded by highlighting the upcoming launch of a national guidance program, in collaboration with the Ministry of Information, to assist farmers in overcoming challenges and adapting to climate change.