Minister of Industry in the caretaker government, George Bouchikian, visited the Aley district at the invitation of the head of the Green Hand Organization, Zahir Radwan, as part of the Authentic Aley activities aimed at developing programs related to artisanal and traditional industries. The minister began his tour at the authentic bazaar market, showcasing products from 300 families, where he listened to a detailed explanation about the importance of these products, along with the hospitality extended by the people of Aley, known for it. This market has distinguished itself for its enduring traditional character, focusing on spices and herbs since 1945.
Minister Bouchikian also visited the heating market in Aley district, which hosts four factories specializing in various heating products made locally in Aley’s commercial sector, as well as markets dedicated to stove manufacturing. Radwan, as the head of the artisans and traditional manufacturers union in Lebanon, expressed the importance of cooperation between the Ministry of Industry and the artisans’ union to position them properly among the three ministries (Industry, Tourism, Culture) rather than under the Ministry of Social Affairs, which does not represent artisans adequately. He emphasized the significance of solid cooperation with the ministry, especially since the Ministry of Industry has always been proactive in supporting artisans through a dedicated center within the ministry building that serves as a market for artisans to promote their products. This tour is an integral part of the lives of artisans and traditional manufacturers in Aley.
After being briefed on the diverse industrial sources, the minister later visited the tourist office in Aley district in Shmalan, recently inaugurated by the Minister of Tourism. He then proceeded to Daqoun, where he learned about artisanal crafts and pottery through Dr. Thuraya Jabbak, and at Qadi Bridge with Rabi Doue.
They discussed the ongoing project Aacc Authentic Aley Craft Center, which will house eight workshops and include eight main crafts in Aley district: carpentry, metalworking, painting, silk screen printing, pottery, soap making, glasswork, and embroidery. It will also feature the Authentic Restaurant, which is currently in its final construction phases funded by UKAID and supervised by UNDP.
In a statement, Minister Bouchikian remarked:
"The hidden Lebanese treasures discovered in the district represent our heritage and civilization, which have shaped future generations, including doctors, lawyers, and great thinkers in the world, thanks to these traditional industries in the villages. The aim of this visit was to focus on these industries and give them their intrinsic value, as I am a person deeply attached to my country's heritage and take pride in it, considering it the foundation for all remaining industries. This implies that all industrial ideas stemmed from traditional craftsmanship. I was impressed by the idea of (Authentic Aley) and the efforts made, so we came to shed more light on it and support it. Solidarity is crucial in this field.
Aley is, for me, a region with a rich history that remains a beacon of the country. This area plays a significant and complementary role with other districts in Lebanon; it is a launching point for many heritage-related initiatives, thus serving as the foundation and starting point for all activities and endeavors.
Positivity exists in my life; industry has proven that it is the optimal solution for the Lebanese economy during crises. It has created quality and change in the economy and was the largest supporter of national output through local and exported products to 105 countries worldwide. We will continue to put forth every effort in the upcoming stages because industry is the cornerstone of the economy, and we must maintain it."
