On February 18, 2010, Berytech held a lunch debate in honor of the Minister of Economy & Trade, Mr. Mohammed Safadi in the presence of advisors to the minister, Berytech entrepreneurs and high-level executives.

His Excellency commended the Lebanese for their spirit of entrepreneurship despite the numerous disabling factors within the national climate. He touched upon the efforts of the Ministry to coordinate efficiently with other ministries in order to bring about an enabling environment for startups and SMEs. He also elaborated on the government’s intention to create a number of business parks and economic zones that would enjoy freedom of operation and benefit from special taxation. The patenting department within the Ministry will be revamped to present services at par with today’s global intellectual property requirements.

A discussion with the entrepreneurs on the challenges to access global competitiveness ensued, while participants shared with the minister the challenges, frustrations and rewards of doing business in Lebanon.

The Minister toured Berytech and visited some of its companies. He was presented with a trophy of appreciation for his visit. Commenting upon the latter, he declared: “It has been a great pleasure to visit Berytech today. To witness the birth of companies with an entrepreneurship of creativity is a great experience! I would like to thank all those responsible for giving a chance to others to move Lebanon forward”.