Beirut: Prime Minister Dr. Nawaf Salam on Thursday held a meeting with a delegation from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), led by Khawaja Aftab Ahmed. The meeting was also attended by Minister of Public Works and Transport Fayez Rasamny and Secretary-General of the Council of Ministers Judge Mahmoud Makkiyeh. The discussions culminated in the signing of an agreement to initiate a public-private partnership for the management and operation of Lebanese airports.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the agreement was formally signed by Judge Makkiyeh, representing the Lebanese side as President of the Higher Council for Privatization and PPP, and by Khawaja Aftab Ahmed on behalf of the IFC. The partnership aims to usher in a new era of airport management in Lebanon, focusing on the rehabilitation, expansion, financing, operation, and maintenance of Rafic Hariri International Airport, while also exploring the development of Qlayaat Airport in the north as a secondary international gateway.
In a joint statement, Khawaja Aftab Ahmed expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for his support, highlighting the strategic nature of the partnership. He emphasized that Lebanon's ambitious vision and reform agenda are laying the groundwork for a stronger economy, with the private sector poised to play a pivotal role in attracting investment and accelerating growth. The partnership with the IFC is expected to enhance Lebanon's airport infrastructure, aligning it with international standards and improving fiscal revenues.
Minister Fayez Rasamny reaffirmed Lebanon's commitment to privatization and public-private partnerships as a cornerstone for economic prosperity. He noted that the Council of Ministers has approved an amendment to the Public-Private Partnership Law and referred it to Parliament. This partnership with the IFC marks a significant step towards attracting foreign investment and improving public facilities, with a particular focus on airports.
The agreement also outlines plans for Rene Mouawad Airport, with Sky Lounge winning the tender for its immediate management. Future phases will involve attracting further investment and expertise to manage and develop the airport infrastructure, ensuring continuous modernization and maintenance.
The IFC will conduct necessary studies and prepare the project's terms of reference, which will be shared with potential investors. This initiative is expected to attract major international operators, leveraging the private sector's ability to inject substantial capital and expertise into Lebanon's airport sector. The overarching goal is to deliver world-class services and enhance Lebanon's connectivity and resilience.