BEIRUT - Lebanon and Russia sought to strengthen economic, trade and investment cooperation at the second Lebanese-Russian Economic and Investment Forum, “Beirut 2,” held in Beirut under the patronage and presence of Economy and Trade Minister Dr. Amer Bisat.
The forum brought together Lebanese and Russian business representatives, companies, investors and economic officials to explore trade opportunities, investment partnerships and potential joint projects across several sectors.
Opening the forum, Minister Bisat said Lebanese businesses continue to operate despite weak demand, limited financing and high costs, stressing that the government’s role is to create genuine opportunities for growth.
“Lebanon’s economic vision is clear: produce more, export more and attract investments that build an economy capable of growing,” Minister Bisat said.
He stressed the need to direct capital toward productive projects and develop long-term partnerships that can support investment, create jobs and expand economic activity.
Minister Bisat Outlines Three Priorities
Minister Bisat identified three priorities for strengthening economic cooperation with Russia.
The first is expanding Lebanese exports to the Russian market, particularly agricultural products, food industries, light manufacturing and services. He said businesses need practical solutions related to market standards, transportation, payment mechanisms and distribution partnerships to increase access to Russia.
He also highlighted the role of the Lebanese community in Russia in connecting Lebanese producers with potential buyers and business partners.
The second priority is developing investment partnerships and joint projects that can expand production in Lebanon. Bisat said Russian partners could contribute capital, technology, expertise or access to new markets, while Lebanese companies could use these partnerships to expand and create additional employment.
He called on participating businesses to focus on specific projects, assess their feasibility and identify what each side could contribute to their implementation.
The third priority is follow-up after the forum. The minister said the value of the event would depend on the steps taken afterward, including identifying serious opportunities and addressing obstacles that could prevent them from moving forward.
He added that the Ministry of Economy and Trade would follow up on issues within its mandate and coordinate with relevant authorities on matters requiring broader cooperation.
Russia Calls for Practical Cooperation
Russian Ambassador to Lebanon Alexander Rudakov said the second edition of the forum reflected continued interest among Lebanese and Russian businesses in expanding economic relations.
He said current trade and economic ties between the two countries did not reflect their full potential and called for greater practical cooperation.
Rudakov identified agriculture, energy, mechanical engineering, medicine, pharmaceuticals, advanced technologies, food supplies and fertilizers among areas of interest for Lebanese businesses seeking opportunities in Russia.
He also said Russian companies were interested in expanding their presence in Lebanon, which he described as a potential gateway to Middle Eastern markets.
The ambassador stressed the importance of direct communication between businesses and developing banking, logistics and other mechanisms needed to facilitate trade and investment.
Forum Aims to Support Business Partnerships
The forum, organized by the Lebanese-Russian Cooperation Office “Ruslivan,” followed the first “Beirut 1” forum and aimed to move discussions toward concrete business opportunities.
Organizers said the event included company presentations, discussions on products and market access, distribution opportunities and bilateral business meetings.
The opening session also included remarks by representatives of the Moscow government and Lebanese professional and business institutions.
The forum is expected to continue with business discussions and meetings aimed at identifying potential partnerships and projects between Lebanese and Russian companies.
