Agriculture Minister visits consumer markets at the ports, meets fishermen
In an unprecedented move, Agriculture Minister Nizar Hani visited the consumer markets at the ports, where he met with several fishermen and discussed the conditions of the fishing sector and their needs.
The Minister was accompanied on his tour by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization's (FAO) Ambassador to Lebanon, Veronica Quatrola. They were received by the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Consumer Markets, Ziad Chaaya, alongside a team from the Ministry of Agriculture and representatives from the FAO.
The tour began at the fish market, where Minister Hani listened to fishermen's problems and challenges, especially in light of the current economic conditions. Ways to develop market infrastructure and modernize sales mechanisms to ensure the sustainability of this vital sector were also tackled.
The delegation later moved to other market sections, which have extensive potential to serve as permanent or seasonal centers for displaying agricultural products and food industries, including markets dedicated to vegetables, meat, and various crops. Vast areas were also detected that could be transformed into permanent exhibitions that enhance direct marketing between farmers and consumers.
This visit comes as part of efforts to enhance food security, encourage local produce, and achieve sustainability in the agricultural and food sectors, in line with the Ministry of Agriculture's vision to develop markets and improve the livelihoods of workers in these vital sectors.
For her part, the FAO Ambassador to Lebanon affirmed her organization's support for any initiatives that contribute to achieving these goals and enhancing the stability of the country's agricultural sector.
It's worth noting that this is the first time a Minister of Agriculture visits consumer markets in Lebanon, reflecting the government's and the Agriculture Ministry's interest in local production sectors and support efforts through practical and direct measures.
