On the occasion of the first edition of The Arab Mayors Academy program, the UCLG-MEWA delegation, being in Lebanon on July 21-24, 2024, undertook a series of visits, targeting to enhance collaborations on local and regional sustainable development while addressing and discussing the challenges and issues affecting the region.
Visit to Union of Dannieh Municipalities and Bakhoun Health Center
In the region of Dannieh, the delegation had the pleasure of meeting with Lebanese local leaders. This gathering, enhanced by the warm and generous hospitality extended by Mr. Mohamad Saadie, President of the Union of Dannieh Municipalities, proved to be an excellent opportunity for in-depth discussions about the current status and challenges faced by local and regional governments across the country.
The delegation also visited the Union of Dannieh Municipalities, where Mr. Saadie provided an insightful briefing on their notable ongoing efforts, particularly in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals in the region. During their visit, they had the chance to tour the Union’s latest initiative, the Bakhoun Health Center. This center, celebrated as a model of excellence in rural Lebanon’s health services, stands out as one of the best practices in the field.
Visit to former Mayor of Bakhoum Mr. Ziad Gamal
During the visit to Northern Lebanon, the delegation paid a visit to Ziad Gamal, the former Mayor of Bakhoun, at his home. Mr. Gamal, who was instrumental in leading his city’s urban development initiatives during his time in office, generously shared his extensive experiences and insights with the delegation.
Visit to Mayor of Tripoli Dr. Riad Yamak
In the stunning city of Tripoli, the capital of North Lebanon, the UCLG-MEWA delegation had a meeting with Dr. Riad Yamak, the Mayor of Tripoli. This significant visit offered an excellent opportunity to engage in a comprehensive discussion about various aspects concerning the city. Additionally, the discussion extended to the city’s future prospects, exploring potential projects and initiatives aimed at fostering growth and enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
Meeting with Mr. Safwan Dannawi, Director of the Lebanon Central Bank in Tripoli
During their visit to Tripoli, the delegation were afforded the valuable opportunity to meet with Mr. Safwan Dannawi, who serves as the Director of the Lebanon Central Bank in Tripoli. During this meeting, Mr. Dannawi provided a detailed explanation of the financial situation facing municipalities throughout Lebanon. He delved into the various economic challenges that these municipalities are grappling with and elaborated on the strategic plans and measures being considered and implemented to overcome these difficulties.
Visit to the Deputy Chief of Mission at the Turkish Embassy Mr. Tolga Budak
A highly productive and insightful meeting was held with Mr. Tolga Budak, who serves as the Deputy Chief of Mission at the Turkish Embassy in Lebanon. During this meeting, an extensive evaluation was conducted, focusing on the current status and numerous challenges faced by local governments, not only in Lebanon but also across the broader region. The discussion delved into various critical issues, offering a thorough analysis of the political, economic, and social factors affecting these local administrations.
Visit to Prime Minister Mr. Najib Mikati
The UCLG-MEWA delegation had the privilege of engaging in a highly productive meeting with Najib Mikati, the Prime Minister of Lebanon. This meeting provided a valuable platform for in-depth discussions centered on the current state of Local and Regional Governments (LRGs) in Lebanon, as well as in neighboring countries within the region. The dialogue was comprehensive, addressing not only the key challenges these governments are facing but also exploring the various opportunities available to them.
Additionally, the UCLG MEWA delegation, visited Mr. Najib Mikati in his office, provided an extensive briefing on the ongoing activities and initiatives of UCLG-MEWA. The Prime Minister expressed his profound satisfaction with the fruitful collaboration between Lebanese municipalities and UCLG-MEWA. He conveyed his optimism that, through these endeavors and the section’s dedicated efforts, the relationships will flourish and strengthen even further, leading to enhanced cooperation and mutual progress.
Visit to Jounieh
They also had the pleasure of visiting Juan Hobeiche, the esteemed Mayor of Jounieh and Co-President of UCLG-MEWA. During this visit, they were thoroughly impressed by the remarkable recent developments within the city, as well as the future projects that are currently in the planning stages.The discussions highlighted the innovative strategies being implemented and the progressive vision that is driving the city’s growth and development.
Visit to Minister of Interior and Municipalities Mr. Bassam Mawlawi
The UCLG-MEWA delegation had the distinct honor of meeting with Mr. Bassam Mawlawi, the Minister of Interior and Municipalities of Lebanon. During this esteemed meeting, they presented a thorough overview of the current condition of Lebanese municipalities, highlighting both their achievements and the challenges they face. The discussion also delved into exploring various strategies aimed at enhancing the global presence of these municipalities. They examined potential initiatives and approaches to bolster their international profile, strengthen their networks, and leverage opportunities for collaboration and development on a global scale. The exchange was both insightful and constructive, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing the role of Lebanese municipalities in the global arena.
Visit to Union of Dahieh Municipalities
The final destination of their journey through Lebanon was the Union of Dahieh Municipalities, located in Beirut. At this significant venue, the delegation were afforded the opportunity to engage in detailed discussions with President and UCLG-MEWA Country Representative in Lebanon Mr. Mohamed Dergham, as well as numerous mayors from the surrounding region. The conversations focused on recent projects and initiatives that have been undertaken by the Union, providing valuable insights into their impact and progress.