Beirut, November 2022 – In commemoration of 7th edition of the World Week of Italian Cuisine, the Embassy of Italy in Beirut, the Italian Trade Agency, and Spinneys came together to celebrate their partnership with their annual gathering at Spinneys Signature Lebanon.
With the aim of supporting Lebanon’s economy through the import of Italian products, the ceremony was attended by the Italian Ambassador Nicoletta Bombardiere, the representative of the ITA, Mr. Claudio Pasqualucci and Hassan Ezzeldine, Chairman of Gray Mackenzie Retail Lebanon.
Highlighting this tasty occasion, the Italian ambassador stated: “Food has become another connecting element of historical and cultural ties between Italy and Lebanon. Indeed, the distinctive trademark of both Italian and Lebanese cuisines, which developed side by side throughout the centuries along the shores of our common Mediterranean basin, is their simplicity. Simplicity based on natural products of the earth, combined with tradition and creativity at the same time. The result is a rich cuisine and yet accessible to everyone. Not a luxury for the few, but a way to gather people together in the name of conviviality. Food, for us, means also sharing. In this spirit, also this year, we will be organizing a solidarity lunch in collaboration with Nation Station, an organization created after the blast to provide assistance to people in need in Geitawi. Food means also heritage. With its emphasis on local produce, the Mediterranean diet has been inscribed in 2013 on the UNESCO list of intangible cultural heritage of humanity. Speaking about food, in our times, we cannot refrain from addressing the issue of food insecurity, which has become even more urgent in the current geopolitically challenging scenario.”
Emphasizing on the importance of such efforts, Hassan Ezzeldine said: “The importation of Italian products opens the door to the European market which is a big step forward for Lebanon during these difficult times. Nothing will or should compromise the quality of the products we offer to our customers”.
Entertained by Italian Michelin-starred chef, Gianni Tarabini’s, specialty dish, they were also joined by key business players in the market as well as the media and local and regional influencers. They were introduced to the new Italian product of the famous Alfredo sauce, available at Spinneys, that will bring the authentic taste of Italy to their table. In addition to the exquisite Italian dishes, the day was accompanied by musical guests: Maria Mattar, the brilliant soprano singer as well as the talented pianist, Wissam Khoury.
The solid partnership between the Italian Trade Agency and Gray Mackenzie Retail Lebanon continues to have a positive impact on the industry and the nation as a whole, despite the unstable economic and political situation. As the second annual celebration of Italian Cuisine Week marks the success of the partnership, a promising future awaits.