NNA - Caretaker Information Minister, Ziad Makary, on Thursday emphasized the crucial role of the private sector in sustaining Lebanon, while calling for a renewed partnership between the youth and the state.

"Thanks to the private sector, Lebanon is still standing," Makary remarked at the launch of the “Colors Festival” in Ras Beirut’s Bliss Street, underscoring the importance of continued collaboration with the government.

"You could have held this festival without the state’s involvement, but your faith in state institutions is the message that matters most,” Makary added.

The Information Minister further stressed the need for reconciliation between Lebanon’s youth and the government, saying, "We, the generation over 50, will retire, and it will be the youth who must build the future state through cooperation." He praised Bliss Street as a symbol of youthful energy, home to the American University of Beirut, and a hub of progressive ideas, dreams, and freedom.

Reflecting on the event, Makary expressed happiness that “the street would be closed not for protests, but for joy, art, culture, and celebration." He invited the media to cover the festival, stating, "This is a chance to show the world Lebanon’s strength through its joy, tourism, and media."

The festival, organized by Aura Media, is intended to reclaim Beirut's streets with colors of joy and life, according to festival coordinator, Aya Moussa.

====================R.H.