BEIRUT– The Lebanese-Emirati Business Council held its first meeting at the Beirut and Mount Lebanon Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture, chaired by its president, Wassim Daher.

Discussions focused on the council’s 2026 action plan and mechanisms to strengthen economic relations between Lebanon and the United Arab Emirates.

Opening the session, Daher expressed confidence that the council, through the “constructive and dedicated efforts” of its members, would achieve its objectives in consolidating and developing Lebanese-Emirati economic ties.

He highlighted the “deep-rooted historical and fraternal relations” between the two countries, praising the UAE leadership’s longstanding support for Lebanon and its hosting of tens of thousands of Lebanese nationals.

Daher said these factors, combined with successful cooperation between business communities in both countries, provide a strong foundation for advancing economic relations.

He pointed to promising opportunities across multiple sectors and said the council would work on establishing a roadmap aimed at elevating bilateral cooperation, with a particular focus on strengthening private sector partnerships.

He noted that the council’s formation by the Federation of Lebanese Chambers followed a decision taken during a summit between the two countries’ presidents, describing it as a significant boost and an opportunity to achieve tangible progress.

The council approved its 2026 action plan, appointed Alphonse Dib as secretary, and outlined a general framework for the work of specialized committees, identifying short- and medium-term steps for implementation.