The LDE Oceania conference was held in Sydney on 9-10 March 2018, under the patronage and presence of the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants, Mr. Gebran Bassil, and the participation of more than 1,000 Lebanese and Lebanese descendent, as well as a large number of Australian officials. The conference discussed several topics, including Lebanese nationality and the importance of preserving it, investment between Lebanon and Australia, ways to strengthen relations between the two countries, cultural exchange and its importance as well as Lebanese doctors in Australia and their role and the importance of the media and its impact. The Conference made several recommendations as follows:
The first panel “Lebanity between Past & Present”:
Firstly, continuous communication with expatriates at the individual level to urge them to register their vital records in the personal status records by shedding light on the incentives provided to them by Lebanon. Secondly, opening Lebanese schools in New Zealand and arranging social activities aimed at strengthening their ties with Lebanon. Thirdly, facilitate Lebanese tourism services for expatriates. Fourthly, unify the efforts of the Lebanese Diaspora institutions to activate them better and keep abreast of the technological development and benefit from the opportunities it provides to connect the Lebanese to their motherland.
Second panel “Investment”:
Firstly, invite expatriates to take advantage of the numerous opportunities set by the Lebanese government, the Central Bank and the Investment Development Authorities of Lebanon (IDAL) to attract economic investments to Lebanon. Secondly, the Lebanese government to adopt a reform policy at the economic level by benefiting from the revenues of the oil sector in the near future to fill the deficit in the public debt and contribute to the prosperity of Lebanon by completing the process of building and developing infrastructure and encouraging growth to create jobs and stimulate the economic cycle and keep abreast of developments (technology?). Thirdly, implement government initiatives and long-term strategic plans to support the growing generation and motivate it to hold on to its land and remain in Lebanon. Fourthly, rely on international conferences to support Lebanon and the partnership with the private sector, especially with the expatriate energies to participate in economic projects that contribute to the renaissance of Lebanon.
The third panel, “The Australian Model and Educational Exchange”:
Firstly, establish a joint body in Lebanon and Australia to allow Lebanese students wanting to come to Australia for the purpose of obtaining university education the opportunity to do so and to secure scholarships for the distinguished students among them. Secondly, harmonize educational curriculum in Lebanese and Australian universities by signing agreements of understanding and twinning. Thirdly, encourage expatriate students to pursue their studies in Lebanese universities in order to strengthen their connection with their motherland.
The fourth panel “Trade and Investment between Lebanon and Australia”:
Firstly, promote trade exchange with the aim of bridging the large gap in the trade balance between Lebanon and Australia, especially the subject of Niche Products, which has spread and entered the Australian market recently. Secondly, establish a permanent exhibition for Lebanese products in Australia and the world sponsored by Lebanese, Lebanese-Australian and Arab Chambers of Commerce. Thirdly, expedite the appointment of economic attachés. Fourthly, the Lebanese market is not limited to the geographical area of Lebanon, but extends beyond to huge capabilities and energies scattered around the world that must be utilized.
Fifth panel “Health Care”:
Recommending the launch of an institution to invest in the exchange of expertise, research, medical training and the dissemination of research between Lebanon and Australia.
Sixth and final penal “Cultural Heritage, Social Ties and Media Influence”:
Firstly, motivate the Lebanese to preserve their cultural heritage through the element of passion and effective power of the media. Secondly, reflect the beautiful image of Lebanon through programs and documentaries. Thirdly, focus on young expatriate elements and engage them in cultural activities. Finally, confine the role of the expatriate media in a Council of Immigrants that is under construction to bring the voice of the Lebanese in Australia to their home country.
On March 11, Minister Bassil visited Melbourne where he held a meeting with members of the Lebanese community For more information about the conference and recommendations, please visit: www.lde-leb.com/oceania2018.php
Here is the conference program and some picture
