Signing of a cooperation between Hôtel-Dieu de France and Jezzine Government Hospital

Beirut, January 29, 2025 – Under the patronage and in the presence of the Minister of Public Health, Dr. Firas Al-Abiad, a ceremony was held at the General Directorate room of Hôtel-Dieu de France Hospital to announce the signing of a cooperation agreement between Hôtel-Dieu de France and Jezzine Government Hospital. This agreement, the result of constructive collaboration, aims to enhance medical cooperation and develop healthcare services in the Jezzine region. The strategic partnership is considered an important step in strengthening the ties between the two institutions and improving access to high-quality healthcare services for the local population.

The event was attended by the Minister of Health, Father Salim Daccache, S.J., President of Saint Joseph University and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Hôtel-Dieu de France, Mr. Nassib Nasr, General Director of Hôtel-Dieu de France Hospital Network, the Chairman of the Parliamentary Health Committee, MP Bilal Abdullah, as well as current and former MPs from the region. Also present were the President of the Jezzine Municipal Union, the Director of Jezzine Government Hospital, several prominent local figures, the Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at Saint Joseph University, and the hospital’s department heads and directors at Hôtel-Dieu de France.

Following a welcoming speech, Mr. Nassib Nasr emphasized during the event: "This initiative with Jezzine Government Hospital embodies the partnership between the public and private sectors, supported by Hôtel-Dieu de France, which has always worked for the welfare of the community. Thanks to the determination of His Excellency the Minister of Health, a cooperation project has been put in place to support Jezzine Hospital and the region. This partnership aims to gradually expand to include more citizens, and it could serve as a model in other areas, especially in healthcare." He concluded by stating: "We hope to contribute as a hospital network to the revival of the country after all the hardships it has faced." He also paused to express his deep thanks and gratitude to His Excellency the Minister of Health for his exceptional efforts throughout his tenure, especially during a period of economic and security crises.

For his part, MP Dr. Charbel Massad spoke, saying: "It is an honor to be here today at this significant moment, which marks a great step with the signing of the cooperation agreement. This partnership reflects our shared vision to enhance the healthcare sector in Jezzine and place human health at the heart of our priorities. Health is a fundamental right for every citizen, and it requires collective efforts to provide high-quality healthcare services. Through this partnership, we reaffirm our commitment to offering modern healthcare services and developing the training of local professionals." He ended his speech by thanking all those who contributed to this initiative.

On this occasion, Professor Salim Daccache, S.J., commented: "This project is a blessing and an opportunity to remind everyone that Hôtel-Dieu de France and Saint Joseph University are always present to serve the community and carry a shared mission. Since the 17th century, the Jesuits have been in Saida and Jezzine, a region that is dear to our hearts and to the hearts of all Lebanese. Our presence in these areas is a presence for development and blessings." He continued, saying: "We will continue this mission regardless of the challenges, and we are particularly committed to human development, focusing on both university and school education, as well as healthcare and medical services. Together, we will save Lebanon."

Dr. Firas Al-Abiad also expressed his satisfaction, stating: "I am very happy to be here today at this moment, which I consider very important, first for the Lebanese people, second for the healthcare sector, and especially for the Ministry of Health. We all know that one of the biggest problems has been access to advanced healthcare services. At the Ministry of Health, we focus on enhancing primary healthcare services, while also paying special attention to secondary services that follow these. With funding from the World Bank, we will develop specialized centers near government hospitals to support their sustainability. This mission cannot be achieved alone, and that is why collaboration with the private sector has been essential. Today, we begin this cooperation between the public and private sectors at Hôtel-Dieu de France." He concluded by saying, "I am very proud of the legacy and quality of Saint Joseph University and Hôtel-Dieu de France, the main partner of the Ministry of Health."

At the end of the meeting, Dr. Elias Massad spoke, saying: "On behalf of the management of Jezzine Hospital, I thank you for all the support you have provided us and for the assistance that helped us reach this moment. We hope that this cooperation will mark the beginning of a new phase for Jezzine Hospital." He concluded his speech by presenting symbolic gifts from the Jezzine region to the event’s officials as a token of appreciation for all the efforts made.

This event was an important opportunity to reaffirm the significance of this initiative within the ongoing efforts to ensure broader and more effective healthcare coverage for all Lebanese citizens.