Beirut:Prime Minister Dr. Nawaf Salam inaugurated the second edition of the "National Industry 2026" Expo on Wednesday. The event, organized by the Association of Lebanese Industrialists in cooperation with the Ministry of Industry, marked a significant step towards enhancing the country's industrial capabilities.

According to National news agency - Lebanon, Premier Salam announced the launch of a national program aimed at boosting local production and replacing imported goods with competitive Lebanese products. This initiative is set to be executed in coordination with relevant ministries, alongside a joint government mechanism to enhance industrial exports and attract technology investments.

Prime Minister Salam highlighted that Lebanese industrial exports, valued at approximately $3 billion annually, showcase the competitiveness of Lebanese products in international markets. He emphasized the importance of recognizing and appreciating the success in exports.

Salam also addressed the necessity of supporting the industry as a national interest, asserting that the government views industrialists as partners in Lebanon's reconstruction. He confirmed ongoing efforts to develop policies that encourage the domestic production of goods currently imported by the country.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister pointed out that energy costs pose a significant challenge for industrialists. He underlined that addressing the energy crisis is a government priority, with efforts being made to find sustainable solutions.