Saudi Gazette 

 

JEDDAH — Lebanon Consul General Ziad Atallah is pleased to announce that the up coming Independence Day celebration will be held at the consulate general's new building.

 

Atallah attributed this achievement to the hard work of the Lebanese business council.

 

As promised a year ago that the consulate would be a hub for the Lebanese community, Atallah is delighted with this key achievement, which was planned in 2000 long before his posting here. It was one of the main projects which he kicked off since his posting. 

 

“Approved in 2004, the building corner stone was set by Michel Suleiman in 2008, said the consul general, adding that the work stopped because a decision could not be reached on the building's design. 

 

He added: "When I arrived, I wanted to proceed with work in the building and I was sure that Lebanese business council members would do something superb.”

 

The new building is on a land space of 3,800 sqm, which includes the consul general's residence, consulate general's new office and a big place for social events. 

 

The Lebanese business council not only supported the construction of the building with their expertise, but also helped with th required materials, equipments, tools and manpower.

 

“Work is still going while we are talking. I have gained experience of contracting, engineering and architecture. I go there every other day. It will be a soft opening during the Independence Day ceremony, just to tell everyone that we have the new location. Before summer break of 2015, the consulate operations will move there,” Atallah said. 

 

The new building will embody Atallah’s vision of the role of the consulate and the Lebanese club that will host 1,000 seated people. He plans to expand and enlarge the Lebanese club activities in order to organize more activities for the Lebanese community under the direct control and sponsorship of the consul general and a board of volunteers.

 

The consulate's new, interactive and updated website will also be launched on the Independence Day ceremony. The services offered by consular affairs will be more organized; more online facilities would be provided to save efforts and time of people.

 

The consulate also provides legal consultation and guidance from Ghazawi Law firm, which has turned out be very helpful and fruitful for the Lebanese community.

 

Atallah also praised King Abdullah, Crown Prince Salman, and all Saudi authorities for the help extended to the Lebanese community and consulate.