Qatari Ambassador Sheikh Saud bin Abdul Rahman bin Faisal Al Thani (left), Lebanon's caretaker Health Minister (center), and Acting Director General of the Qatar Fund for Development Sultan bin Ahmed Al Assiri (right) on Sept. 16, 2024. (Credit: Mohammad Yassin/L'Orient Today)
BEIRUT — The Qatari-funded project to rebuild and equip a new building for the Beirut Governmental University Hospital in Karantina was officially kicked off on Monday, the state-run National News Agency reported.
A celebratory ceremony was led by caretaker Health Minister Firass Abiad, with Qatari Ambassador Sheikh Saud Al Thani and Sultan Al Assiri, Acting Director General of the Qatar Fund for Development, in attendance.
Abiad noted that "the new building project is not just about rebuilding a health facility, but it is a testament to what can be achieved through cooperation, perseverance and determination," in a press release from the ministry.
"The new hospital will serve all Lebanese, not just those in Beirut, and will play a crucial role in the Ministry of Public Health’s strategy to rebuild a comprehensive and inclusive public health sector," he continued.
Abiad added that his ministry is "moving forward in establishing a strong health network that provides services to our community, and serves as a robust support during health crises and challenges."
During the ceremony, Sheikh Saud Al Thani emphasized "Qatar's commitment to health care and sustainable development in Lebanon."
For his part, caretaker Economy Minister Amin Salam said on X: "The cornerstone for the Beirut Governmental Hospital building in Karantina, which was damaged during the Beirut Port explosion on Aug. 4, 2020, will be rebuilt."
"Thank you, Qatar, both leadership and people, for rebuilding and equipping the governmental hospital to meet the health needs of the Lebanese, especially those of low-income and more vulnerable families," Salam added.