NNA - Caretaker Minister of Labor, Mustafa Bayram, visited today the Qabalan carpet factory in the southern town of Zefta, which was in flames for 42 hours, as civil defense firefighters managed to put out the fire that caused millions of dollars in material losses and the displacement of 200 employees.

Owner of the factory, Hussein Qabalan, explained to Minister Bayram the extent of losses incurred by the factory, which was considered one of the largest in the Middle East.

Praising the heroic contributions of all members of civil defense and fire brigades, all associations and the Lebanese army, Bayram said: "We regret this disaster and the tragedy that befell this factory, but we all trust Hajj Hussein Qabalan, this southerner who has persevered and patiently invested in his land, and succeeded in many accomplishments...We are full of confidence and hope in the Lord Almighty that Hajj Qabalan will overcome this ordeal and ensure the factory's reoperation as soon as possible.”

The Minister reiterated the need for supporting the Lebanese industry and Lebanese production, noting that his visit today comes to stand by Hajj Qabalan and his brothers to provide all necessary assistance.

He added that in his capacity as Minister of Labor, and with consultation and agreement with PM Najib Mikati, he will work on launching the Labor Ministry's platrorm to allow for placing free announcements for work opportunities, even if temporary, for those who have lost their jobs due to the catastrophic fire incident, until the factory returns to full operation. 

===========R.Sh.