How Are India and Lebanon Enhancing Their Tourism and Business Links?
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Synopsis
Discover how India and Lebanon are deepening their tourism and business connections in a pivotal seminar held in Beirut. With key figures from both nations participating, this event highlights opportunities for collaboration and growth in these sectors.
Key Takeaways
- Strengthening bilateral ties between India and Lebanon through seminars.
- Showcasing India's tourism potential and business opportunities.
- Increased participation of Lebanese businesses in trade fairs in India.
- Growth in imports from India to Lebanon.
- Celebrating 71 years of diplomatic relations.
Beirut, Oct 1 (NationPress) A seminar titled 'Promotion of Tourism and Business in India' took place in Beirut, aimed at enhancing tourism and business connections between India and Lebanon.
The event was organized by the Embassy of India in Beirut, with Indian Ambassador Noor Rahman Sheikh facilitating a panel discussion that showcased India’s rich heritage, stunning destinations, and vast business prospects.
Lebanon’s Tourism Minister Laura El Khazen Lahoud graced the event as the Chief Guest, while MP Ali Oseirran, who is also the President of the Lebanese-India Parliamentary Friendship Committee, attended as the Guest of Honour.
Numerous high-ranking Lebanese officials, including Director Generals from the Ministries of Finance, Public Works, and Transport, along with various representatives from the tourism sector and influential businessmen, were present at the seminar.
During the event, the Chief Guest and Guest of Honour, accompanied by Miss Lebanon Nada Koussa (who participated in Miss World in May 2025 in Hyderabad), Nabil Merwani, VP of ATTAL, Mounir Teeny, Chairman of CCIA Zahle & Beqaa, and Haya Yehya, Director of Dar Al Handsa, shared insights on the significance and methods of fostering tourism and business collaborations between India and Lebanon. Lebanese artist Daniel Balamane captivated the audience with a stunning performance using the Shahnayi, an Indian double-reed wind instrument,” reported the Embassy of India in Beirut on X.
Earlier in March, the Embassy launched a Multi-sectoral Business Seminar in Beirut to strengthen India-Lebanon trade relations, which included a panel discussion led by Ambassador Sheikh and attended by MP Ali Osseiran, senior officials from various ministries, notable businessmen, and the Indian diaspora.
Despite the disturbances caused by the Israel-Hezbollah conflict in 2024, the Indian diplomatic mission remained actively engaged with the business community and organized seminars to enhance bilateral commercial ties.
Additionally, several Lebanese firms took part in trade fairs in India throughout 2024-25, leading to fruitful meetings and diverse trade opportunities. Lebanon's imports from India reached US$337 million in 2025, up from US$323 million in 2024, making India the 11th largest import source for Lebanon.
The year 2025 marks the 71st anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Lebanon, a partnership that has historically thrived since India established diplomatic relations with Lebanon in 1954.
Point of View
The strengthening of tourism and business ties between India and Lebanon reflects a commitment to fostering mutual growth and collaboration. This initiative not only promotes economic benefits but also enhances cultural exchange and understanding between the two nations.
NationPress
01/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of the seminar held in Beirut?
The seminar aimed to enhance tourism and business ties between India and Lebanon by showcasing opportunities and cultural exchange.
Who were the key figures at the seminar?
The seminar featured Indian Ambassador Noor Rahman Sheikh, Lebanon's Tourism Minister Laura El Khazen Lahoud, and other senior officials and business leaders.
How much did Lebanon import from India in 2025?
Lebanon imported US$337 million worth of goods from India in 2025.
When did India establish diplomatic relations with Lebanon?
India established diplomatic relations with Lebanon in 1954.
What cultural activities were included in the seminar?
The seminar featured a performance by Lebanese artist Daniel Balamane on the Shahnayi, an Indian wind instrument.
