Mr. Salim Sfeir's Speech
Chairman General Manager of Bank of Beirut s.a.l.

It pleases me to meet you at this gathering in honor of you those who took it upon themselves to deliver the truth for the benefit of the Lebanese citizens.

It pleases me that this occasion renews the avows between the press a crucial constituent of modern societies, and the bridging force between the people and the decision makers and the banking industry which takes it upon itself to maintain an economic stability in the country. You and us warrant trust: Press is trusted to be impartial, and banks are trusted to preserve people's wealth.

In their passion for truth and wealth preservation, the people of Lebanon bond with us, which in turn entails upon us a commitment to honesty and integrity.

Fellow press associates,

I am proud of your announcement that we've transported Beirut's name, through Bank of Beirut, to London, Cyprus, Doha, United Arab Emirates, Iraq, Nigeria, Sudan, and Sultanate of Oman. Our near plans to open up a branch in Syria and other plans to strengthen our presence in Sudan, Yemen, Africa, and Europe come as proof of the solidity of the Lebanese Banking Industry.

In this occasion, I would like to announce the launching of Bank of Beirut Invest a specialized Bank in the real estate domain under the direct supervision of Mr. Antoine Chamoun. The duty of this bank is to supply the Lebanese youth residential opportunities to strengthen their tie to their land, limit their emigration, and provide them with psychological and economical stability. The Bank has already started accepting applications.

This added asset to our 43 branches all over Lebanon is an implication of the strength, correct strategy of Bank of Beirut, and its loyalty to its society.

Through our ability to strengthen our bond and collaboration, we can help stabilize the defenses of this country, and guarantee its ability to overcome formidable obstacles. The banking industry will remain a solid cornerstone in the plan to salvage this country.

I believe that a bright tomorrow awaits Lebanon in spite of all the difficulties that bash it.

Authorities have no choice but to meet and agree.

I have faith in this country, and this faith has propelled what we have accomplished so far. Let us all renew our faith in Lebanon, for it deserves it.

Thank you.

Mr. Antoine Chamoun's Speech
General Manager of Bank of Beirut Invest s.a.l.

Chairman General Manager, ladies and gentlemen,

I add my voice to that of the Chairman General Manager, Mr. Salim Sfeir in welcoming and thanking you for accepting the invitation of Bank of Beirut, and I do hope this assembly becomes the first of a series of continuous collaborations.

To begin with, Bank of Beirut Invest wishes to clarify certain points in avoidance of any misapprehensions:

Bank of Beirut Invest works like other banks in terms of accepting deposits, offering loans and financial advancements, though the time period varies for each of the deposits and loans.

The Chairman and the Board Members chose this domain to work with because of their belief that though the bank, any bank, has a financial and economic function, it should not be prevented to perform a social role in helping the individual increase his productive abilities. Both functions are connected to help this individual be a contributing and productive agent of his society, which conduces to the social and economic advancement of both his society and nation.             

Financial investments in all economic domains help ensure job opportunities to various people, thus strengthening their bond with their nation.

Additionally, I would like to clarify the affiliation of Bank of Beirut Invest with the residential activity, and its contribution to the psychological and economical stability of all Lebanese especially for the ones with low incomes. We particularly know how attached the Lebanese is to his habitat and how deeply rooted he is in this good land.

Bank of Beirut works with the official lending agencies, not competitively, but to supplement their work. Days will attest to what we can provide the Lebanese youth with in terms of helping them find a home in their country.

We renew our welcome in honoring you, and promise a press gathering in the near future to present any new plans by Bank of Beirut Invest.