BEIRUT – Lebanon has launched a new strategy to support its creative and cultural industries, with Minister of Culture Dr. Ghassan Salame emphasizing that “investing in creativity is investing in people and the country’s future.”

He added that culture and creativity have never been side sectors, but have always been spaces of life, hope, and resilience, and have survived thanks to the efforts of Lebanese artists.

The launch took place at the National Library in Sanaye and was attended by Ministers of Social Affairs and Economy, Hanan Al-Sayyed and Amer Al-Bassat, along with senior officials and many cultural leaders from across Lebanon.

The event began with the national anthem and a short video showcasing Lebanon’s cultural industries. Minister Salame said, “Investing in creativity helps unite our identity, boosts national pride, and supports economic recovery."

The strategy covers nine sectors: heritage, museums, publishing, public libraries, music, audiovisual arts, performing arts, visual arts, and design.

It provides practical steps for growth, including improving laws and procedures, supporting funding, and building skills.

Minister Salame noted that the strategy was developed with hundreds of artists and cultural professionals, based on national forums and local and international studies.

He said systematic investment in these sectors could contribute up to 5% of Lebanon’s GDP and create nearly 100,000 jobs.

He added, “The Ministry of Culture is now turning this strategy into real projects that support creators, open new opportunities, and preserve Lebanon’s cultural identity while using culture as a tool for sustainable development.”