Minister of Industry in the caretaker government, Deputy George Boushikian, continued his inspection tours of factories, with a focus on the Bekaa region today, Saturday. He visited three factories: the first specializes in the production of agricultural fertilizers, owned by Fadi Abu Hamdan. It is the largest in size, supplying Lebanese farmers with fertilizers and exporting to abroad, particularly to Syria, Jordan, and Iraq. The second factory specializes in manufacturing pasta of various types. The third is a concrete mixing plant owned by Jan Sarouji and Sons, attended by mayors, local leaders, and several industrialists in the region.
During the tour, Boushikian praised the industrial commitment to environmental and health standards as well as specifications and criteria. He stated, "The commitment of industrialists to employ Lebanese labor is clear, with minimal reliance on foreign workers and only when absolutely necessary, provided they meet legal criteria." He noted the visible joy of both industrialists and workers, as they form one family. He expressed his delight at the courage and enthusiasm of Bekaa residents to invest in the productive sector, emphasizing a clear future vision based on betting on the role of industry in resource and economic development.
He continued, "The Lebanese have always been proactive and innovative, and this is evident in the factories I visited today. They integrate industry, agriculture, agricultural chemicals, and construction." He added, "It is a point of pride for national industry as it plays a crucial and essential role in revitalizing the economy. Industry provides job opportunities, produces for local consumption, and exports abroad. Our industry has become known in many countries and competes in various markets. The Lebanese do not despair. They endure on their land, and the resilience of the industrialist in his factory is a testament in itself. The diversification of Lebanese factories and industries encompasses more than 25 sectors, integrating with other structural and economic elements. Today we congratulate those managing these factories that produce food items and necessary materials for agricultural production, construction, and development. On this occasion, I announce that we will not be lenient regarding unlicensed factories and the illegal employment of foreign labor."
