Tripartite cooperation to boost the cooperative sector in Lebanon

During a press conference held yesterday at the Agriculture Ministry, the Social and Economic Fund for Development (ESFD), the General Directorate of Cooperatives (GDC) and the National Union of Cooperative Associations signed a protocol of cooperation under the patronage of Minister Akram Shehayeb and with the presence of various concerned dignitaries. The purpose of the said protocol is to develop a framework of collaboration between the three parties in the domains of research, planning and training, in addition to launching cooperative stimulating initiatives. Accordingly, the ESFD will afford the expertise required in training and specialized technical assistance after the completion of the necessary studies and relevant assessment. As per the protocol, the ESFD role complements the responsibilities and annual programs of the GDC in agreement with the plans set by the Union of Cooperatives targeting the overall coops sector. The overall purpose of the agreement is to design a comprehensive training program for implementation through establishing temporary or permanent centers, and to draw a proper program for funding projects generated by cooperatives and to create exhibition facilities to market their products. 

(Al Diyar, September 1, 2016)