NNA - Minister of Public Works and Transport, Fayez Rasamny, on Tuesday met with Australian Ambassador to Lebanon, Andrew Barnes, at his office in the ministry. The introductory meeting focused on ways to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries.  

Rasamny also held talks with a delegation from the Board of Directors of the Lebanese Syndicate of Public Works and Construction Contractors, led by Engineer Maroun Helou, who visited to offer felicitations. 

The meeting provided an opportunity to outline the challenges facing the construction sector amid the ongoing economic crisis and to propose solutions, particularly regarding reconstruction efforts and the exclusive participation of Lebanese contractors in these projects. The delegation also expressed their readiness to support the ministry if needed.  

Rasamny informed the delegation that the ministry would soon launch a tender for consultancy firms, adhering to technical and legal standards, to oversee upcoming projects.  

The minister also met with Indian Ambassador to Lebanon, Muhammad Noor Rahman Sheikh, accompanied by Consul and Trade Attaché, Ajay Kumar, and Second Secretary, Nada Nour El-Din. Discussions focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation, particularly in key sectors under the ministry’s jurisdiction, with an emphasis on transportation, where India has significant expertise.  

Additionally, Rasamny received MP Elias Hankash, President of the Make Your Mark association, and Youssef Sharbaty, President of the Our Environment association, who updated him on the progress of a solar-powered street lighting project in villages and towns in Metn, including the installation of solar-powered lamps in Roumieh in collaboration with local municipalities and international programs.  

As a token of appreciation, photographer Rami Rizk presented Rasamny with an artistic piece depicting the illuminated streets and villages from the first phase of the project. The meeting also covered various regional development issues.

=======R.H.