Organized by the Istituto per la Cooperazione Universitaria (ICU) in cooperation with Consumers Lebanon, the event gathered representatives from Lebanese ministries, universities, civil society organizations, and international institutionsalongside the European Union.
The specialized scientific workshop entitled “Partnership in Innovation and Scientific Research for Sustainable Agriculture in Lebanon” was convened on 3 September 2026 at the Radisson Blu Hotel – Verdun, Beirut, under the patronage of H.E. Dr. Nizar Hani, Minister of Agriculture, represented by Dr. Wafaa Diqa Hamzeh,the workshop emphasized the urgent need to link scientific research with farmers’ realities in light of Lebanon’s climate, economic, and post-conflict challenges. Opening addresses highlighted the importance of transforming innovation into tangible benefits for farmers, including higher incomes, reduced costs, and more efficient use of water, land, and energy. Four EU‑funded PRIMA projects, Water4Med, Nustalgic, FUSION, and WaterMellon, were presented, showcasing practical approaches to water management, sustainable food systems, food waste reduction, and climate‑resilient agriculture. Expert consultations contextualized these projects within Lebanon’s agricultural sector, stressing the integration of innovation into national policies, the strengthening of academic partnerships, and the promotion of circular economy solutions. The workshop concluded with recommendations to enhance farmer support through training and financing, expand regional networking via the PRIMA platform, and mobilize civil society to raise awareness on sustainable consumption. Collectively, the event underscored that research, innovation, and partnership are essential pillars for building resilience and achieving sustainable impact in Lebanon’s agriculture sector.
