A number of areas for enhancing trade have been identified, including food and agro business

India and Lebanon have identified key areas of bilateral cooperation, including trade, during a two-day visit by Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Secretary Ausaf Sayeed.

The Secretary (Consular, Passport, Visa, and Overseas Indian Affairs) in the MEA visited Lebanon on Monday and Tuesday. He had visited Syria on Sunday.

Sayeed called on Minister of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants of Lebanon Abdallah Bou Habib and discussed a range of bilateral, regional and international issues of mutual interest. He also met with Secretary General of Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Emigrant Hani Chemaitelly.

According to the MEA, both sides identified key areas of bilateral cooperation during the meeting, including trade, people to people contact, and vocational training.

Made-In-India motorbikes for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants and Beirut Governorate were handed over by the Secretary (CPV & OIA) as part of India’s bilateral assistance. He also announced that an artificial limb fitment camp (Jaipur Foot) will be organized in Lebanon soon.

During the visit, Secretary (CPV & OIA) participated in a high-level Business Seminar which was attended by Minister of Industry George Bouchekian. A number of areas for enhancing trade were identified including food and agro business, pharmaceuticals, gems and jewelry, electronics, solar batteries, and small vehicles, the MEA said.

The Lebanese side was also appreciative of the positive role played by the Indian Battalion at United Nations Interim Force In Lebanon (UNIFIL).The visit of Secretary (CPV & OIA) to Lebanon has renewed the bilateral relations and will pave the way for stronger relations in future, the MEA noted.