Beirut, May 24, 2022: The Lebanese Private Sector Network (The Network) held an assembly to announce 10 conditions for economic rebound and growth. The event was held at AVA venue in Achrafieh and was in the presence around 600 attendees that include ministers, members of parliament, syndicates, dignitaries, ambassadors, commercial attachés, university presidents’ deans and representatives, professionals from various sectors, as well as media and journalists.
The event falls in line with the vision of The Network to become a key player in developing a thriving and prosperous private sector in Lebanon in a liberal free market economy. Stemming from the needs of the private sector and the vital role it plays, 10 conditions were developed to preserve and contribute to the rebound and growth of the Lebanese economy.
Network members took to the stage to present the 10 conditions:
1) Economic Security
2) Justice
3) The Formal Economy
4) Financial Health
5) Modern Non-central State
6) Food Security
7) Local Output
8) Access to Health
9) Capacity Building
10) Sustainability.
In addition, five guest speakers had interventions during the ceremony, each sharing their perspective on the current situation: Gilbert Ghostine, CEO of Firmenich; Nadine Hachach, Founder and CEO of Proximie; Edy Maroun, CEO of Anghami; Ibrahim Maalouf Jazz Trumpeter and Composer and Ali Jaber, Group TV Director of MBC
Commenting on the occasion, Rima Freiji, General Coordinator of The Network stated: “It all began with a strong & pressing conviction that there was one voice that was not given its rightful place, that was not loud enough, not bold enough and that voice belonged to the private sector.”
“Since February of 2021, we have grown from merely 3 members to over 75. Our members are from the various syndicates, associations, and NGOs. We are here to preserve and celebrate our Lebanese entrepreneurial, and creative identity – not as individuals but as a force of collaboration.”
Members of parliament and policy makers, we have listened to u and now we hope you listen to us. We are the gate keepers, we are the engine of growth, we are the Private Sector that does not surrender,” she concluded.
The Lebanese Private Sector Network is a group of businesswomen and men as well as practitioners of liberal professions from the private sector volunteering and working to respond to the economic collapse and its impacts while lobbying towards long-term change within the Lebanese economy.