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PRESS RELEASE

USAID HOSTS HIGH LEVEL DIALOGUE ON LEBANON'S ENTRY INTO WORLD TRADE ORGANIZATION

Monday, July 30, 2007

Beirut, Lebanon

United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Lebanon Mission Director Raouf Youssef opened a high level discussion on Lebanon’s entry into the World Trade Organization with leaders from Lebanon’s business community and government at the InterContinental Phoenicia Hotel in Byblos on July 30, 2007, at 10:00am.

Participants in the dialogue included American Chamber of Commerce President Salim Zeeni, Telecom Regulatory Authority Head Kamal Shehade, Microsoft Anti-Piracy Manager Ali Harkeh and representatives from the ICT Ministerial Committee. USAID and its partner, the International Executive Service Corps, organized the dialogue in collaboration with Booz Allen Hamilton, the American Chamber of Commerce, World Information Technology and Services Alliance and the Business Software Alliance.

The discussions focused on copyright ownership for small businesses, e-business and the telecom industry as well as intellectual property rights in the entertainment industry and software development. Strengthening intellectual property rights is critical to entry into the World Trade Organization and helping Lebanon attract more foreign direct investment.

Work on WTO accession is part of a larger USAID program to promote tourism and jobs in Lebanon. The $1.8 million program works with ICT firms to increase their exports, gives rural businesses affordable internet access, and helps the tourism industry use technology to attract new visitors, and expand businesses and income.  

USAID has worked in Lebanon since 1951, funding development projects to benefit Lebanese citizens. In Lebanon, USAID creates jobs, invests in youth and protects the environment. With funds from the American people, USAID provides $40 million in assistance a year, working in partnership with Lebanese and U.S. organizations. USAID’s work reflects the strong friendship between the Lebanese and American people. For more information about USAID’s projects in Lebanon, visit USAID’s website www.usaidlebanon.org.lb.

Public Affairs Office – Press Section
P.O. Box: 70-840 Antelias
Tel: 961-4-542600; Fax: 961-4-544861
E-mail: PASBeirut@State.gov ; Web Page: http://lebanon.usembassy.gov