Beirut: Prime Minister Dr. Nawaf Salam engaged in a meeting with the World Bank delegation led by Regional Director for the Middle East, Dalia Khalifa, who was accompanied by World Bank Group Country Manager for Lebanon, Enrique Blanco Armas. This meeting marked Khalifa's introductory visit following her assumption of new responsibilities.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the discussions centered on aligning the World Bank's project portfolio with the Lebanese government's priorities. Key sectors highlighted during the meeting included energy, water, and social protection. The dialogue also explored the World Bank's potential involvement in rebuilding war-affected regions, focusing on damage assessments, infrastructure rehabilitation, and coordinating efforts among donors.
Prime Minister Salam emphasized the necessity of expediting reconstruction measures, emphasizing their importance for the resilience and return of residents in southern Lebanon. This initiative aligns with the government's priorities, aiming to reinforce the region's recovery process.
Additionally, the meeting covered Lebanon's strategic objectives to bolster regional integration. Efforts to facilitate trade, enhance regional energy connectivity, and develop transport corridors and digital infrastructure were discussed, with the aim of positioning Lebanon as a regional hub for connectivity and economic exchange.
Khalifa reaffirmed the World Bank's commitment to supporting these initiatives through studies, investment programs, and necessary reforms.