An agricultural conference titled “Agriculture is the Earth’s Pulse” was held on Wednesday, gathering key political, agricultural and economic figures to address the challenges and future of Lebanon’s agricultural sector.
In the opening session, Charles Arbid, President of the Economic, Social and Environmental Council (ESEC), noted the sector's modest contribution to GDP. He attributed this to systemic weaknesses, a lack of governmental support and the urgent need for structural reforms to revitalize agriculture and ensure its sustainability.
Minister of Agriculture Nizar Hani used the occasion to declare that Lebanon is at a “pivotal moment” for agricultural development. He announced the launch of a national campaign, bearing the conference’s title, which he described as a framework to stimulate agricultural growth. “Agriculture is not just a profession,” Hani said. “It is the foundation of food security and economic development.”
Hani emphasized that the ministry’s new plan responds to a wide range of pressing challenges, including climate change and the repercussions of ongoing conflict. “The plan is based on integration and systematic action,” he said, “and aims to restore the strategic role of agriculture within a comprehensive vision.”
He further highlighted efforts to enhance the capacity of Lebanon’s scientific laboratories through international partnerships, particularly to confront the risks posed by pesticides and ensure safer agricultural practices.
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