In an event hosted by the Lebanese Private Sector Network, Kamal Shehadeh, Minister for the Displaced and State Minister for Technology and AI, shared a bold vision for Lebanon’s digital future. He emphasized the need for a true digital revolution, one that could transform the country’s infrastructure, governance, and international positioning.
“Lebanon has the perfect opportunity for change,” Minister Shehadeh declared. “If we don’t build a country today, it’s because the elites either didn’t want to or weren’t able to. But this is a Republic not just a state. And in a Republic, decisions must be made based on a constitution that ensures peace and progress.”
Closing a Chapter, Opening a New One
Shehadeh stated that one of his key missions is to close the file of the displaced in a structured and respectful manner aiming to eventually close the Ministry of Displaced Affairs.
“It would be the first time in Lebanon’s history that a ministry is closed in an orderly way, while fully protecting the rights of those involved,” he noted.
Digital Transformation at the Core
Turning to his role as Minister of Technology and AI, Shehadeh stressed the importance of building a strong digital infrastructure. “All government transactions should become fully digital. Our goal is a digital ministry — one that reflects the future of governance.”
He introduced the concept of a Digital Public Infrastructure , a unified platform that will host and enable all digital government transactions. “It’s remarkable how 80 to 90% of our daily interactions can already be done via apps,” he added. The Minister highlighted the urgency of implementing a Digital ID system, urging immediate pressure to launch it within a year if conditions allow. This ID would be the cornerstone of Lebanon’s digital shift, ensuring transparency, efficiency, and trust.
Lebanese DNA: A Strength in the Digital Era
“Our resilience, our multiculturalism, our multilingualism — these traits are embedded in our DNA,” he said. “They’re exactly what the digital world needs. It’s time to reclaim the leadership we once had 30 years ago.”
In a funny statement he likened the Lebanese people to salmon: “No matter where we go, we yearn to return and rebuild our homeland.”
What’s Next?
- Focus on Lebanon’s current state and needs.
- Invest in and highlight hidden local talents.
- Attract investors and accelerate digital growth.
He encouraged attendees to get involved and support upcoming ministry projects.
Lebanon vs. Global AI
While acknowledging the power of tools like ChatGPT and other AI models, the Minister noted: “These systems are built by humans from different parts of the world. Lebanon has both the right people and the right ecosystem to join and maybe even lead this global tech race.”
He confirmed that this digital vision is backed by cabinet-level discussions and serious commitments: “This isn’t just talk it’s a movement.”
In The end
Minister Kamal Shehadeh is not just outlining a vision , he’s setting a precedent. With bold plans to close outdated ministries, build a cutting-edge digital infrastructure, and push for innovations like the Digital ID, he’s positioning himself as a reformer with both ambition and action. he marks a rare moment where words are backed by strategy, and where Lebanon’s future might finally align with its true potential.
watch the full event
