BEIRUT -  H.E. Raymond R. Balatbat, Philippine Ambassador to Lebanon paid a courtesy visit to Lebanese Economy & Trade Minister Amin Salam on 25 August 2022 to discuss the expansion of Philippines-Lebanon trade relations. Both parties recognize the importance of revitalizing trade in strengthening the relations between the two countries.

Recognizing the economic challenges in the past two years along the pandemic resulting in the relative decline of Philippine exports to Lebanon, Amb. Balatbat expressed the Embassy’s keen interest in expanding the market presence of Philippine products. By expanding its network with local Lebanese retailers and distributors, the Embassy seeks to bring PH exports to the Lebanese market which hosts more than 17,000 Filipinos.

H.E. Raymond Balatbat (R) during his courtesy visit with H.E. Amin Salam (L).

Minister Salam welcomed the Philippine Embassy’s interest and offered the Lebanese government’s support in promoting mutually beneficial trade between both countries. He emphasized the importance of cost-effective sources like the Philippines in Lebanon’s current food security measures.

Both sides commit to working on identifying key food exports, government-facilitated business matching, tourism promotion, and deployment of professional services.