Lebanese Republic 
International Women's Day
Minister of Economy and Trade, Mansour Bteish expressed his wish to “strengthen the women’s role in Lebanon” stressing that “no economy will progress unless accompanied with a woman significant and effective contribution” wondering “how one can aspire toward a sustainable growth and an economic balance without benefiting from the capacities of the half of the society?”
Bteish met today with the Ministry of Economy and Trade’ women employees in the occasion of the International Women’s Day, where he listened to their demands and comments.
After exchanging of felicitations and distribution of roses to each employee, Bteish addressed a speech stating the following: “we are gathered today to celebrate the International Women’s Day. However, I strongly believe that everyday shall be the women’s day. I openly state that I have a bias for women and I truly admire their capacities and skills.
You are the mothers, sisters, wives, daughters, colleagues and activists… “You are the lamp that is put on its stand and it gives light to everyone in the house”, as the Holy Bible says.
You are the lamp that enlightens the people’ road in defending their rights as you constitute the majority in this Ministry, starting by the Director General and ending by most of the positions and functions.
Having a bias for women does not obviate my appreciation and respect for whomever performs his work faithfully because this Ministry is in direct contact with the people’s rights and interests. Its success is related to the amount of awareness, protection, concern and commitment within total transparency.
I am determined to succeed with you and thanks to you”.
He also added “I know I may be a persistent and demanding person in the public service but the thing that advocates me is that I am very demanding towards myself (as the proverb says “He who sees you as his equal has not wronged you.”)
In my opinion, I consider working in public sector as an apostolic work aiming for both public service and interest.
For all what was mentioned, I do not promise you comfort, however I promise all of you to appreciate all your exerted efforts whereof the principle of reward and punishment will be applied within the Ministry.
I am aware for the challenges that encounter you and I will exert my best endeavors to overcome them, namely in terms of equality of available opportunities. On the other hand, I am asking for your full cooperation and openness. Let us all achieve good work and cooperate together pursuant to the applicable laws within a decent framework of respect, commitment and self-esteem”.
Furthermore, Minister Bteish added “ In the occasion
