SupMed Lebanon: Saturday 13th May 2023, Inauguration of the Nursery in the presence of His Excellency Dr. Habbas Hajj Hassan, Minister of Agriculture of Lebanon, and Mr. Thierry Dupeuble, Director of CIHEAM Montpellier

Inauguration of the SupMed Project Nursery under the High Patronage of His Excellency Dr. Habbas Hajj Hassan, Minister of Agriculture of Lebanon, and Mr. Thierry Dupeuble, Director of CIHEAM Montpellier.

Minister Hajj Hassan emphasized the importance of the SupMed Project for Lebanese agriculture, as it promotes sustainable agricultural production, which contributes to reducing Lebanon’s food dependency.

Mr. Dupeuble stressed the importance of the continued collaboration between CIHEAM Montpellier and agricultural partners in the Baalbeck-Hermel region. After supporting the establishment of an olive oil mill, they are now supporting the realization of this nursery. He assured the Lebanese stakeholders of CIHEAM Montpellier’s commitment to stand by their side in the future as well.

The SupMed Project Nursery, primarily dedicated to olive tree seedling production, will enable the Farmers Support Center (FSC) in Hermel to develop and structure an organic olive sector by providing local variety seedlings. The production is focused on the green cutting technique.

More than a hundred people attended this event, including representatives from the majority of local cooperatives and leading farmers involved in the project. Numerous institutional representatives were also present, along with local and national media.

His Excellency Dr. Habbas Hajj Hassan, Minister of Agriculture of Lebanon, and Mr. Thierry Dupeuble, Director of CIHEAM Montpellier, concluded the ceremony by planting an olive tree in front of the commemorative plaque.