Revival of Beirut, European-Style

German delegation members unveiling spectacular multi-billion-dollar project to rebuild Beirut port and its surroundings but admitted it was contingent on far-reaching government reforms. (AFP).

On the 9th of April 2021, two German firms unveiled a reconstruction plan that would turn Beirut port and its surroundings into a major lucrative area, according to European standards. Speaking at a press conference in Beirut, Colliers Germany’s managing director Hermann Schnell stated “affordable housing for families, green space and good infrastructure” is one of the goals of the project. Such a plan would work wonders in a country were construction companies are mainly focused on high-end housing suitable for the elite or wealthy foreigners.

The project aims to establish “central park” next to architectural heritage, being part of plan that would generate 50,000 jobs and billions in profit. Of course, the port of Beirut will also be transformed into a “world class, state-of-the-art port” that would make use of automated technologies and would be more cost-efficient and ready for regional trade growth. “Opportunity for a new city,” was the main pitch of the German presenters.

However, the envoy stated that such a grand plan could only come to life if there is accountability and transparency. The absence of a government and the unwillingness of other international stakeholders to invest in Lebanon’s trampled economy, are two other obstacles that this project faces. Unless, a radical change occurs at the government level and corruption is better addressed, the dream of erecting a “New City” will remain to be nothing but fairytale.   

Communication and Public Relations Department