2 0 6 1 0 2 0 1 2 1 e l g n a b f b l b f …...fransabank participates at the 2015 bdl accelerate...
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Lebanon . France . Algeria . Syria . Belarus . Cyprus . Sudan . Iraq . Cuba . UAE . Ivory Coast
www.fransabank.com
FBG/FBLB
/FBAN
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12/1.0/2016-02
issueNº122016
International Recognition Fransabank Awarded by JP Morgan Chase N.A. - A Quality Recognition Award
Business DevelopmentThe International Arab Banking Summit 2015 in Budapest - HungaryFransabank Invites China’s Tourists to LebanonFransabank, a Partner in Sino-Arab Banking Dialogue: Building Long-Term RelationsFransabank Participates in the 17th Arab Investors and Businessmen Conference in Abu DhabiFransabank, Honored during the “Arab Women Empowerment Fund for Banking Innovation”Fransabank Launches in Tripoli Two Credit Cards for Order of Engineers Fransabank Participates at the 2015 BDL Accelerate Fransabank Announces the 55 Winners of the its Apple Watch Campaign Fransabank Sends 14 Lucky Customers to Watch the UEFA Champions League Final Live
The Green BankFransabank a Major Key Player in Beirut Energy ForumFransabank Participates in COP 21 Conference
The Citizen BankFransabank Celebrates with LAU: a Leader’s Commitment to Education Fransabank Represented by Messrs. Adnan and Adel Kassar, Honored during USG Gala DinnerFransabank’s Family Lives the Celebratory Spirit of the Holy Month Fransabank Brings Life, Health and Hope with Skoun and Oum el NourFransabank, Paves “Roads for Life”Fransabank and Brave Heart Fund at the BDL Beirut Marathon 2015Fransabank, a Partner in Baalbeck International Festival 2015Fransabank Sponsors Beiteddine Festival 2015Fransabank Encourages Music with LeBAM’s Concerts
Our People, our AssetsFransabank’s Holiday Gathering
issueNº122016
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CONTENTS
06
Inte
rnat
ion
al R
eco
gn
itio
n• Fransabank Awarded by JP Morgan Chase N.A. - A Quality Recognition Award
08Bu
sin
ess
Dev
elo
pm
ent
• The International Arab Banking Sum
mit 2015 in Budapest – Hungary
• Fransabank Invites China’s Tourists to Lebanon
• Fransabank Participates in the 17
thArab Investors and Businessm
en
Conference in Abu Dhabi
• Fransabank Participates in Iraqi Banking Forum
• Fransabank, a Partner in Sino-Arab Banking Dialogue: Building Long-Term Relations
• Fransabank Partners with the Annual Arab Banking Conference for 2015 in its 20
thsession
• Fransabank, H
onored during the “Arab Wom
en Empowerment Fund
for Banking Innovation”
• Fransabank Launches in Tripoli Tw
o Credit Cards for Order of Engineers
and Signs a Protocol w
ith Law
yers Syndicate
• Fransabank Participates at the 2015 BDL Accelerate
• Fransabank Sponsors Am
Cham
Conference in New
York: Start Ups Lebanon
• Fransabank Signs a Mem
orandum of U
nderstanding with the Union
of Municipalities of K
alaat Al Istiklal
• Fransabank Launches its Housing Loan Promotion 2015
and Plays its Vital R
ole in DREA
M EXPO
• Fransabank Leads the Way with its LEAD
Account
• Fransabank Announces the 55 Winners of the its Apple Watch Cam
paign
• Fransabank Announces Three Winners in Fransabank’s Car Loan Cam
paign
• Fransabank Sends 14 Lucky Customers to Watch the UEFA Cham
pions League Final Live
04
Lett
er t
o R
ead
er
32
The
Cit
izen
Ban
k• Fransabank Celebrates with LAU: a Leader’s Commitm
ent to Education
• Fransabank Represented by Messrs. Adnan and Adel K
assar,
Honored during USG
Gala Dinner
• Fransabank Participates in USJ 140-Year Anniversary:
“Together for Building the Future”
• Fransabank’s Fam
ily Lives the Celebratory Spirit of the Holy Month
and Advocates for Peace with Ram
adaniyat
• Fransabank Hosts a Christm
as Holiday Food Drive
• Fransabank Grants Financial Support to Neonate
• Fransabank Brings Life, H
ealth and Hope with Skoun and Oum
el N
our
• Fransabank, P
aves “Roads for Life”
• Fransabank Sponsored l'appel du 18 Juin in the Mem
ory of Charles de Gaulle
• Fransabank and Brave Heart Fund at the BDL Beirut Marathon 2015
• Fransabank Sponsors a Football Amity Gam
e; “One Lebanon, U
nited for Tomorrow”
• Fransabank, a Partner in Baalbeck International Festival 2015
• Fransabank Sponsors Beiteddine Festival 2015
• Fransabank at the Heart of B
atroun, Ehm
ej and Tannourine Festivals 2015
• Fransabank Encourages Music with LeB
AM’s Concerts28
The
Gre
en B
ank
• Fransabank, a Major Key Player in Beirut Energy Forum
• Fransabank’s Eco-Business Loan
• Fransabank Participates in COP 21 C
onference
48
Ou
r Pe
op
le, O
ur
Ass
ets
• Fransabank’s Holiday Gathering
Letter to Reader
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Dear Valued Reader,
The last six months of the year 2015 werehighly rewarding for Fransabank, whether interms of corporate events or multi-dimensional initiatives which we cover inthis issue, along with key achievements, andwith a particular emphasis on our role as acorporate social responsible Bank.
This 12th issue of FB Angle records a qualityrecognition award received by Fransabank byJP Morgan Chase N.A. The issue also seesthe partnership of Fransabank in majoreconomic conferences, which took place inLebanon and other countries such as theUnited Arab Emirates, France, and NewYork. It highlights as well the launch ofstrategic initiatives which reemphasizeFransabank’s expanding role in the furtherdevelopment of the economy of Lebanese ingeneral and the sustainable development ofour communities in particular.
We have increased our corporate socialresponsibility to further evidence ourcommitment to implement and adopt an
overall, integrated approach, comprising allthe business lines to consolidate our socialresponsibility culture of the various entitiesof our Group.
Our Fransabank is an established leader indriving economic development and promotingsocial prosperity. In this context, we willcontinue to thrive for meaningful, long-term,sustainable initiatives that are very likely toproduce added value to our shareholders,customers, employees, and society at large.
We are a family with a vision, faithful to ourmission, rallied behind a strategy aiming atunfolding it exactly as intended, which makeus proudly Fransabankers.
We’d like to take this opportunity to thank theorganizing and technical program committeesfor spending days and hours to bring thisissue to light.
Until next issue, enjoy reading us.
Fransabank Family
International Recognition
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Fransabank has been recognized with JP Morgan Chase’s “2015 Elite QualityRecognition Award for Outstanding Achievement of (Next Line) Best-in-ClassMT103 STP” at a rate of 99.67%”. The award came from a major US corre-spondent of Fransabank, JP Morgan, which completed its annual servicereview and singled out Fransabank for the exceptionally high quality of itspayment transactions, attaining the highest percentage among banks.
The “2015 E l i te Qua l i t yRecogn i t ion Award forOutstanding Achievement of(Next Line) Best-in-Class" waspresented to Mr. Adel Kassar,Vice President of FransabankGroup, by Mr. Jossan Maalouf,GM of JP Morgan Chase N.A.Representa t i ve O f f i ce inLebanon, during a ceremony, heldat Fransabank Headquarters inBeirut on Thursday 19th
November 2015, in the presenceof Senior Executives from bothinstitutions.
“We are absolutely thrilled tohave been selected among banksto receive this recognition,” Mr.Adel Kassar, Fransabank’s VicePresident commented in theceremony. “It’s a quality awardand a testament not only to thework we do every day deliveringsuperior service quality, but itclearly reflects the strength ofour integrated team model andour ability to maintain highstandards of transaction executionprecision and accuracy.”
Fransabank Awarded by JP Morgan Chase N.A.A Quality Recognition Award
The Award
Mr. Kassar described 2015 as anoutstanding year for Fransabank,“a year in which we have achievedmany prominent milestones andsuccesses; The 2015 Elite QualityRecognition Award is a welcomeaddition to other distinguishedawards Fransabank has beenhonored with this year.”
Mr. Kassar concluded that thisrecognition is a testimony to thededication shown by Fransabank’sstaff in their relentless quest for
excellence and dedication toconsistently delivering superiorcustomer satisfaction.
JP Morgan Chase’s QualityRecognition Award has beenoffered since 1997 and has beenconsidered since then as a globalstandard for the efficientoperations of the internationalfinancial transactions, indicatingparticularly in 2015 the highquality of payment transactionsprocessed by Fransabank.
Mr. Adel Kassar - Vice Chairman of Fransabank Group receiving the Award from Mr. Jossan Maalouf, GM of JP Morgan Chase N.A. - Representative Office in Lebanon
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06
Business Development
Fransabank was a key contributor in a summit, where representatives ofpublic and private sectors expressed their utmost concern to the Arab andinternational economies, the financial institution, and the banking community.The annual International Arab Banking Summit for 2015 was hosted by theUnion of Arab Banks in Budapest-Hungary, and it continued for two days, onthe 9th and 10th of June 2015.
Ministers, governors of central banks,leading bankers, and decision-makers, attended the summit withthe objectives of facilitating thediscussion on financial inclusionamong banking and financial leaders,Government and public sector officials,as well as offering supportingdesigning financial inclusion policiesparticularly in the Arab region, andshowcasing successful internationalexperiences. Lebanon was representedby an official delegation headed by Mr.Nohad El Machnouk, the LebaneseMinister of Interior and Municipalities.
During the summit, Prime Minister Dr.Viktor Orbán delivered a speech inwhich he expressed a special word ofthanks to HE Mr. Adnan Kassar:
“We are great admirers of your work.As you know, western civilization isbased on trust in our institutions. Thisis the guiding principle of the entirewestern world, and we sometimestend to forget that these institutionsare run by human beings. I can tell youwith complete certainty that we wouldnot be here today, and this meetingcould not have taken place, had Mr.
Adnan Kassar not worked quite as hardand with quite as much perseverancefor the promotion of relations betweenHungary and the Arab world as he hasdone over the past fifty years. Pleaseallow me to take this opportunity tothank him, now in a more public forum,for all the efforts which he has made inthe interest of Arab-Hungarianrelations – and through this, for theHungarian people. Thank you verymuch, Mr. President, for all the workyou have done over the past fewdecades.”
In his turn, HE Mr. Adnan Kassarexpressed his heartfelt thanks andsincere appreciation to the PrimeMinister of Hungary, Dr. Viktor Orbánfor his sponsorship of this importantSummit held in Budapest.
Orbán Expresses a Special Word of Thanks to KassarDuring the International Arab Banking Summit 2015 in Budapest – Hungary
He gave a speech in which he statedthat “this Summit represents aunique opportunity for us tostrengthen our overall fundingopportunities. It is also a uniqueopportunity to explore highlycompetitive and attractiveopportunities here in Hungary inmany sectors. We are witnessing theArab investments racing to establisha foothold in Hungary, thanks to theattractive investment environment,and the position of this country as ahub and gateway towards Easternand Central Europe.”
It’s worth mentioning that the two-day summit was a platform forHungarians to consolidate their beliefin the cooperation with the Arab worldin the new global order which iscurrently unfolding. For twoconsecutive days, Fransabank’srepresentatives enthusiasticallyparticipated in discussions whichtackled financial inclusion, financialinclusion strategies and access,usage and quality of financial servicesfor individuals and enterprises, SMEsfinancing and impediments, Islamicfinance, and alternative deliverychannels for increasing financialinclusion.
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Business Development
Fransabank Group’s care for China and effort to develop the China-Arab andChina-Lebanon relations goes beyond the banking sector. With the supportfrom the Lebanese Ministry of Tourism and the People's Republic of ChinaEmbassy in Lebanon, Fransabank hosted the top 20 travel agencies in Chinafor a full 8-day Familiarization Tour (FAM Tour) from 11th to 19th October 2015 topromote Lebanon’s tourism to the Chinese market.
Under the patronage and in thepresence of His ExcellencyLebanese Minister of Tourism, Mr.Michel Pharaon, the launching pressconference of this project took placeon 12 October 2015, in the presenceo f r e p r e sen t a t i v e s f r omMunicipalities, Hotels, Restaurants,Tourist sites, Lebanese economicorganizations and other members ofthe tourism and hospitality sectorsin Lebanon.
In his keynote speech, H.E. Mr.Adnan Kassar stressed thatLebanon’s uniqueness lies in thecountry's historical and archaeo-logical sites along with its culturallandmarks of ancient civilizations,coupled with hospitable people,enabling it to be one of the mostimportant travel destinations fortourists. “We wanted to build on ourunique personal ties with China toserve Lebanon, support its tourismindustry, and attract the mostimportant tourists in the world, theChinese," said Kassar. Kassarextended a special thanks to HE Mr.Michel Pharaon for being the driverof this project and to HE Mr. Jiang
Jiang for his continued support andcooperation to further strengthenand develop the Chinese Lebaneseties. He added, “Many had doubts inthe timing of this visit, whereLebanon is witnessing political dead-lock and instability,” assuring that“overcoming crises and difficulties isalways attained with a positiveattitude”.
Ambassador of the People's Republicof China stated that "there's onething I can confirm and it's thatLebanon is a beautiful country and Iam confident that the Chinese travelagencies will recommend thisbeautiful country to your outboundtourist clients!”
Fransabank Invites China’s Tourists to Lebanon
H.E. Mr. Adnan Kassar giving his speech
HE Mr. Michel Pharaon shed lighton a series of projects initiated bythe ministry part of the "Live LoveLebanon" campaign, mentioningthe "Silk Road" as an initiativewhich aims to improve trade andeconomic relations betweenPeople’s Republic of China, Arabcountries and the rest of theworld. Pharaon expressed hisadmiration and extended histhanks to HE Mr Adnan Kassar, inwhom he found “honesty, readi-ness, professionalism, andefficiency to develop and organizeLebanese-Chinese relations, andactivate it on the tourist level." Hecommented on the two Kassarbrothers’ "extraordinary effort,which was the reason behind anoutstanding success embodied inthis conference and which willlead to further cooperation withChina and its tourism industry."
During the 8-day FAM Tour, thetour members were amazed bythe abundant tourist resources,and well developed hospitalityindustry in Lebanon, as well asFransabank’s professionalism inorganizing events related toChina. This project has also drawnthe attention from media both inLebanon and China through 2articles from Xinhua News Agencywho covered the FAM Tour.
H.E. Mr. Adnan Kassar, H.E. Mr. Michel Pharaon, H.E. Mr. Jiang Jiang and Mr. Adel Kassar
Chinese Delegation with the speakers
Overview of the Press Conference Representatives of Chinese Travel Agencies visiting Lebanon
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Business Development
In Abu Dhabi, and under the theme "Investing in Entrepreneurship and Innovation", Fransabank wasstrategically present among senior Arab officials from different economic and financial sectors, whichthe 17th Arab Investors and Businessmen Conference brought together, along with prominent businessowners and investors from many Arab countries.
The conference was held underthe patronage of His HighnessSheikh Khalifa bin Zayed AlNahyan, UAE President, fromNovember 16 to 17, 2015 in AbuDhabi, and was organizedjointly by the General Union ofChambers of Commerce,Industry and Agriculture for theArab Countries (GUCCIAAC),the Arab League, UAE Ministryof Economy, UAE Ministry ofForeign Affairs, UAEFederation of Chambers ofCommerce and Industry, AbuDhabi Chamber of Commerce& Industry, Arab Investmentand Credit Export Guarantee(Dhaman), in cooperation withStra teg ic Market ing &Exhibi t ions.
Fransabank Participates in the 17th Arab Investors and Businessmen Conference in Abu Dhabi: "Investing in Entrepreneurship and Innovation"
The sessions highlighted therequirements of economic andlegislative climate andappropriate motivations forentrepreneurs to supportentrepreneurship and innovationin Arab world so that they canaddress the challenges theyface.
During the two days of theconference, Fransabank’srepresentatives contributed inpanels which discusseddifferent projects and potentialinvestment opportunities invarious economic sectors,focusing on the importance ofentrepreneurship and innova-tion which enhance the role ofrelevant Arab and internationalorganizations.
According to Mr. GeorgesAndraos, Fransabank’s Head ofInternational Banking Division,“The importance of this confer-ence lied in its clear vision oninvestment to achieve economicsustainability and joint Arabcooperation to have an attractiveinvestment climate that boostsjoint Arab projects.”
On the occasion of this conference,Fransabank delegation headedby Chairman Adnan Kassar heldseparate meetings with theGovernor of the Central Bank ofthe UAE, H.E. Mr. Mobarak AlMonsouri, and with H.E. Dr.Abdul Rahman Al Hamidi, CEO ofthe Arab Monetary Fund and theArab Trade Finance Program,and with H.E. Dr. Nasser ElSuwaidi, Chairman of NationalBank of Abu Dhabi, the largestbank in the UAE, during whichways and means of cooperationwere tackled.
Fransabank Baghdad Branch
Fransabank Erbil Branch
Fransabank, Keen to Participate in Iraqi BankingForum
On its first day, the forumaddressed the economic and finan-cial status in Iraq in addition to thechallenges faced by the Iraqi,Lebanese, and regional banks inlight of the current security andpolitical situation.
The second day tackled the topicsof electronic banking and mobile-payment, the legal and regulatoryenvironment for e-bankingoperations, the prospects for theirdevelopment under the currentsecurity situation, the role oftechnology and mobile servicescompanies in the provision ofinnovative banking services inaddition to the mechanism forstrengthening the capacity andsources of local digital security.
The Forum was held with theparticipation of the Governor of theIraqi Central Bank and a group ofIraqi, Lebanese and Arab bankersin addition to heads of Heads ofbanking and financial institutions,experts, economists and represen-tatives of specialized media outlets.
To Fransabank, the event representedan area of significant discussionsranging from the Bank’s InternationalExpansion, its experience in Iraq withits two branches in Erbil andBaghdad, to the challenges thatLebanese banks are facing today inthe Iraqi market.
Fransabank, over the years, has accumulated considerable experience in theIraqi banking and financial market. This experience, together with the expec-tations of the evolvement of the Iraqi business environment in time, has led tothe establishment of Fransabank’s two branches in Baghdad and Erbil. In thiscontext, Fransabank was keen to sponsor and participate in the Iraqi BankingForum on the 15th and 16th of September 2015 in Phoenicia hotel in Beirut-Lebanon, organized by the Iraqi Central Bank and Al Iktissad Wal AamalGroup, and in cooperation with the Lebanese Central Bank.
Business Development
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A side event in the form ofroundtable discussion wasco-organized in partnershipwith Fransabank entitled theSino-Arab Banking Dialogue:Building Long-Term Relations.The roundtable discussionstackled the following thefollowing topics:
. Serving the Silk RoadStrategy: What can Arab andChinese banks do together? . Requirements and Challengesfor successful Chinese - ArabCooperation: Language,Culture, Regulations andLegislations. Islamic Banking in China:What are the required
Fransabank, a Partner in Sino-Arab Banking Dialogue:Building Long-Term Relations
adjustment and revisions toregulations and legislations? . Renminbi (RMB) clearing andsettlement: interest of Arabbanks in the internationalizationof RMB. Avenue for partnershipbetween Chinese and ArabBanks to support bilateraltrade, investment and projects:Experiences and concerns onChina - Arab banking cooper-ation.
The participants from Chinawere represented by theChinese Embassy in Lebanon,Huawei, Bank of Ningxia andBank of China. Representativesfrom the Arab Countries
included National Bank of Egypt,China-Arab States Expo,Associations of Banks in Jordan,Kuwait International Bank andCentral Bank of Lebanon.
The Dialogue was open and willbe pursued during the ArabBanking conference organizedby the Union of Arab Banks inChina in September 2016, on theoccasion of China’s presidency ofthe G20 in 2016. FransabankGroup will be a partner to theUnion of Arab Banks facilitating,support ing and act ive lypromoting the conference withthe UAB, in the hope of furtherdeveloping and strengtheningChina Arab banking relations tobetter serve the China Arabtrade, investment, business,cultural and other exchangesand ties.
Fransabank played its vital roleamong the participating bankingand financial institutions, as theforum represented a vivid platformfor exchanging expertise in keyissues such as banking andfinancial Inclusion for individualsin underserved markets in whichthe bank has a long history.
In this regard, discussions andworkshops focused on how thebanking and financial sectorsshall globalize access to financial
services on all groups andsegments of society, which opensthe door wide to combat unem-ployment and poverty alleviation,and address the problems offinancial economy, and contributeto the welfare and humandevelopment in our countries.
The conference, which highlightedthe importance of cooperationbetween public and private sectorsin promoting financial inclusion,aimed at raising awareness to this
financial inclusion, as well asestablishing a new era of financialeducation and awareness foryoung people, so they would beinvolved in the financial system,and to provide better capacity forindividuals and enterprises toaccess financial services effec-tively, and to promote inclusion infinancial sectors to ensure theaccessibility of services to allindividuals including those withlow-income.
In line with its leading role in Lebanon and the region, Fransabank sponsored the 20th Annual Arab BankingConference for 2015, which was organized by The Union of Arab Banks at Phoenicia Intercontinental Hotel from19 to 21 November 2015. The conference tackled this year the regional and global challenges and hence the majoreconomic and social changes taking place nowadays especially in the Arab region.
Fransabank Partners with the Annual Arab Banking Conference for 2015 in its 20th session: “Global Financial Access: The Roadmap 2015 – 2020”
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Business Development
Fransabank, Honored during the “Arab WomenEmpowerment Fund for Banking Innovation”
On this occasion,Fransabank’s ChairmanH.E. Adnan Kassar shedlight on the unique expe-rience he and his brotherMr. Adel Kassar lived inChina, and the journey whichextends for more than 6decades since their veryfirst trip to China in 1954.
HE Mr. Adnan Kassar said, “China was a great school for us, where welearnt the arts and rules of negotiations, entrepreneurship and of buildingsuccessful enterprises, on the basis of trust, resilience, efficiency,patience and attention to the minutest details. From the very early times,we saw the charming and enormous world of opportunities of China andpredicted its inevitable rise to the highest world economic ranks.” AfterPresident Kassar’s speech, a brief documentary about the two brothers’journey in China was presented to the audience who enjoyed a memorabledining event.
During the dinner, Mrs. Dania Kassar, Head of Marketing CorporateCommunication Department in Fransabank sal. was honored, along withseveral other businesswomen as one of the most influential Arab Women.
On the occasion, Mrs. Dania Kassar gladly noted that she is honored to beamong this group of Lebanese and Arab women who are characterizedwith diligence and perseverance, and who could accomplishachievements which contributed to the success of their societies.
In parallel with the conference, Fransabank proudly hosted the GalaDinner at Biel- Beirut on the 20th November 2015 in honor of the interna-tional guests attending the 20th Annual Arab Banking Conference. Theevent included as well the launch of the “Arab Women EmpowermentFund for Banking Innovation”.
Mrs. Dania Kassar giving her speech
Mrs. Kassar congratulated thehonorees, extending a word ofthanks to the organizers of theevent, and finally dedicating theaward to her uncle HE Mr. AdnanKassar and her father Mr. AdelKassar, from whom shementioned that she learnt the artof leadership, and with whom shedeveloped her career path. Mrs.Kassar concluded withexpressing her honor to “be acontributor with her team toachieve Fransabank’s missionand vision in the short andmedium terms, and even the longone.”
Among the honorees was MRS. Dania Kassar, Head of Marketing Corporate Communication Department
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Business Development
Fransabank Launches in Tripoli Two Credit Cardsfor Order of Engineers
A delegation from Fransabank’s topexecutives headed by Fransabank’sGeneral Manager Mr. Nadim Kassarand General Secretary Mr. NabilKassar visited first the Order ofEngineers, whereby the launch of thecredit cards was announced in aceremony held by the Order ofEngineers, and in the presence of itsHead Mr. Marios Baaini and its members.
Mr. Nadim Kassar presented two newcredit cards designed for the engi-neers; one is MasterCard Platinumcarrying the Order’s logo and offered inUS dollars, while the second is MasterCard World offered in Euro.
Kassar explained that theseMasterCard credit cards were designedaccording to modern international
banking standards in terms of creativity,safety and effectiveness, especiallythat it has a very significant advantage- The ID Chip, embedded for security.On another note, he explained that apersonalized mobile phone service forthe syndicate will be launched verysoon.
In this context, Mrs. Lama Dick, Headof Local and Overseas Credit CardDepartment, pointed out that for thefirst time in Lebanon, this program islaunched, and the ID chip embedded inthe credit card will contain, in collabo-ration with the Order, the engineers’personal and career information. Thisfeature aligns with Fransabank’sstrategy to offer targeted and person-alized services to its clients, using thelatest available banking technologies.
Striving to constantly provide its clients with advanced banking products, servicesand programs, Fransabank announced on the 5th of November 2015 in Tripoli thelaunching of two MasterCard credit cards, tailor-made for the Order of Engineers,and a new Visa Infinite credit card, tailor-made for the Syndicate of Lawyers withwhich a protocol was signed. The initiative comes as part of Fransabank's effortsto keep pace with its customers in general – syndicates and orders in particular,anticipate their needs, and establish as well as maintain strategic partnership formutual benefit.
Mr. Nadim Kassar - General Manager of Fransabank and Mr. Marios al Baaini - Head of the Tripoli Order, launching theMasterCard World Euro Card and the MasterCard Platinum in Dollars
Fransabank Signs a Protocol with Syndicate of Lawyers in Tripoli
The Protocol aimed to providelawyers with special offers andconditions on Fransabank’sdeposits, credit cards, SMS service,housing, personal and SME loans.According to the protocol, thelawyers benefit from competitiveand preferential interest rates ondeposits, credit cards and differentloans. Fransabank has alsoset-up an ATM machine at theheadquarters of the Syndicate.
The protocol along with thelaunching of the Visa Infinite cred-it card and the two MasterCardcredit cards come at the heart ofFransabank Group’s initiativeswith all the sectors and within abusiness strategy characterizedby a clear vision, comprehensivedynamism, and a truly uniquecapacity for creativity and innovationin all aspects of the banking and
financial work, which wouldprovide a high added valueaccording to global bankingindustry standards.
Fransabank’s second destination in Tripoli was the Syndicate of Lawyers,whereby a protocol of cooperation was signed in a ceremony held by thesyndicate, and in presence of its Head Me. Fahd al Mukaddim and itsmembers.
Group picture after the MOU signature
Overview of the event
Mr. Nadim Kassar and Mr. Fahed al Moukaddem signing the MOU
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Business Development
Fransabank Participates at the 2015 BDL Accelerate
This yearly event gathers entrepreneurs, investorsand support institutions from key emerging startupecosystems across five continents.
In this context, HE the Governor Riad Salameh statedthat the Central Bank’s aim in 2016 is to launch anelectronic trading platform (ETP). “This platform willallow the listing of startups and funds, and will be anexit for those who have a successful company,” hesaid.
Fransabank was keen to be present among theparticipants on this platform as one of Lebanon’spioneering banks, along with the other participants,such as banks, companies, brokers, family offices,professionals.
Commenting on the exhibition, President Adnan Kassar noted that since the CentralBank issued Circular 331, a dozen banks or more have so far invested around $250million in specialized funds established by venture capital firms, which in turn willcontribute to the launch and operation of startup companies in the informationtechnology, communications and other creative industries, in exchange for a minoritystake in the company.
“It is expected that this type of bank investmentin venture capital funds will expand in the futurewith the growing demand and experience in thelocal market, and with the availability of moreprojects that are economically feasible and havegood growth prospects,” he said.
HE Mr. Adnan Kassar also noted that credits tothe public sector surpassed $37.5 billion, reflecting the commitment of Lebanesebanks to the financing of Lebanon’s economy in its private and public sectors.
With the aim to create liquidity that will serve the startups, among others, Lebanon’sCentral Bank organized the 2nd edition of BDL Accelerate which was held onDecember 10th and 11th, 2015, at the Forum of Beirut. Fransabank participated inLebanon’s annual international startup conference, and officially the largest andmost international startup conference in the Middle East and North Africa.
Fransabank Sponsors AmCham Conference inNew York: Start Ups Lebanon
On the 21st of May 2015, in New York, Fransabank sponsored the conference held by the AmCham (AmericanLebanese Chamber of Commerce) and entitled “Start Ups Lebanon” with an objective to introduceAmerican audience and investors to knowledge - driven Lebanese enterprises and IDEs (innovation Drivenenterprises).
In August 2013, Central Bank ofLebanon issued the IntermediateCircular 331 that widened thescope of the activities ofLebanese commercial banks toinclude proprietary equity partici-pations, directly or indirectly, instart-ups, accelerators or incuba-tors, and venture capital compa-nies in the Knowledge Economy.
Fransabank Group, through itsinvestment bank (FIB), has beenproactive in approaching andexamining several direct investmentopportunities as well as participatingin venture capital funds. Till date,Fransabank Group has participatedin three local venture capital fundslaunched under the Banque duLiban Intermediate Circular 331 and
targeting startups with successfulproven concepts; some of whichare at their early stages but otherin their growth stage. In additionto participating in funds, theGroup through its subsidiary BLCBank, made a direct investment ina video on demand platform start-up.
The Group is considering othernew opportunities and hassoftly committed on two newfunds with additional two beingunder review.
In this vein, Fransabank views thatthe financial partnership in thestill young but ambitious andpromising knowledge economy isaimed at assisting our con-cerned entrepreneurs totransform their businesses intowell governed institutions toeventually enable them to exporttheir products and services, andhenceforth, to list them on theBeirut Stock Exchange.
Business Development
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eco-friendly and go-greener stationsand which falls in the same scope of gogreen initiatives at the bank.
“It’s worth mentioning that during thepast two years, Fransabank hadlaunched a campaign and introduced aseries of innovative Energy Loans toindividuals and institutions in an aim tomaintain a healthy and sustainableenvironment, and that currently, theBank is working on developing energyloans, seeking through these qualityinitiatives to open the door forparticipation in energy conservationand effective treatment of environ-mental challenges.” Semaan added,“For this particular purpose, this loan isgranted in order to support citizens ofthe area to enhance the beauty of theirhouses while reaching a model ofenvironmentally friendly living lifestyle.”
This initiative comes in line withFransabank’s corporate social responsi-bility, supporting this time sustainableenergy and residential projects forcitizens all Lebanese regions.
Fransabank Signs a Memorandum of Understandingwith the Union of Municipalities of Kalaat Al Istiklal Launching an Eco-Friendly Project for its Citizens
Fransabank signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Union ofMunicipalities of Kalaat Al Istiklal on the 19th of September 2015, in the premisesof the Union of Municipalities of Kalaat Al Istiklal situated in the region of Rachaya.During the signature ceremony, Fransabank launched an Eco-Friendly loanproject, aiming at the reduction of household expenses, energy consumption, andat the same time preserving the environment at a very low interest rate.
The event took place in presence of thechairman of the Federation of Kalaat AlIstiklal municipalities, Mr. Issam Elias ElHadi who expressed his gratitude toFransabank as one of the participantswho have worked to develop the projectand make it possible, in addition topresidents of other municipalities,mayors of the region, and Fransabankrepresentatives.
Mr. Elie Semaan, Fransabank’s Head ofRetail Products & Services Department,stressed on the importance of theproduct, stating that Fransabank isalways a pioneer in the local bankingmarket through serving its clients in thecore of its interests. Semaan added,“This loan is granted to cover all thecosts of isolating walls at houses as wellas ceilings that will be covered withtraditional tiles, and constructing doubleglazing and water heaters through solarenergy.” On the other hand, hementioned another agreement signedrecently between Fransabank and IPT inorder to transfer 168 gas stations into
Fransabank Launches its Housing Loan Promotion2015 offering 100% of registration feesand Plays its Vital Role in DREAM EXPO
The promotion offered the opportunityto get back 100% of registration feeswith a Down payment of 25% of plotvalue, and if the Loan amount rangesbetween from LBP 200,000,000 andLBP 800,000,000 maximum, and if theLoan tenor was from 15 years to 30years maximum.
Following the positive feedback and thehigh demand of this loan, Fransabankproceeded in its campaign, and partici-pated from the 19th till the 22nd ofNovember in the most luxurious realestate exhibition held in Beirut, DREAMEXPO, playing a vital role among majorLebanese banks in showcasing itslatest housing loan programs, whichtailored to meet customer needs andhelp both home buyers and investorsalike get the most suitable bankingservices.
Fransabank announced last summer the launching of its latest and most exclusive“Housing Loan Promotion” campaign under BDL 346 Circular.
Business Development
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Fransabank Leads the Way with its LEAD Account
• Minimum deposit: USD 50 or LBP 75,000• Preferential interest : 1.5% USD and 3.5% LBP• No Account fees• Free contactless Prepaid Paypass Card (for ages below 18)• Free contactless Prepaid Paypass Card or Debit Card (for ages 18 and above)• Free Prepaid Internet card• Free banking services: ATM withdrawals, online banking - iBank, Fransabank andSIMBA mobile applications, SMS alerts, call center etc.
In this context, and on 26November 2015, Fransabanksponsored the 5th edition of theannual banking forum of theHoly Spirit University of Kaslik,providing an opportunity to USEKStudents to lead their own waywith its LEAD Account.
Effectively present at the forum,Fransabank has distinguisheditself from other banks by itsbooth and innovative productsand ultimate services which
attracted many young people. Students were undoubtedly enthusiastic to sign up forFREE, and benefit from the features offered by Fransabank’s LEAD Account. USEK. Allthose who opened a LEAD account received the card of Beirut Circle FOR FREE. (Thiscard provides ultimate discounts and offers to its holder and have more than 3000Retailers in the circle and yet more to come).
In this forum, Fransabank demonstrated its commitment to the Lebanese universitystudents and confirmed once again its belief that the world of tomorrow can only bemade by the youths of today.
With the belief that the world of tomorrow can’t be built without the youth of today,Fransabank launched its Lead Account to help youth between 16 and 26 years old gaintheir financial freedom and start leading the way into their future by signing up, FREEof charge, and benefit from a wide range of features which this LEAD Account offers:
Fransabank Announces the 55 Winners of theits Apple Watch Campaign
Travel, spend on Fransabank MasterCard card, and win! was the title ofthe campaign launched by Fransabank last summer, where FransabankMasterCard holders had the chance to win one of 55 Apple watches whenusing their credit or debit cards abroad.
The campaign exceeded all expec-tations, and the 55 Apple Watcheswere distributed to loyal customersthrough 2 draws, which were bothheld at Fransabank’s Headquartersunder the Lebanese NationalLottery supervision.
In the 1st draw, on Monday August24th 2015, 25 Apple watches wereoffered to 25 winners. In the seconddraw, on October 6th 2015, 30 Applewatches were offered to 30 winners.
Business Development
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In the context of Fransabank’s strategy meet its customers‘ desires, anticipate their needs andencourage and reward their loyalty , Fransabank announced on 3 November, 2015, the names of thethree winners of its car loan promotion, in a ceremony held in the Bank's headquarters in Hamra, andin the presence of Mr. Philippe Hajj, Deputy General Manager - Head of Retail Banking, Mr. ElieSemaan, Head of Retail Products & Services Department, and representatives of the Bank, along withthe winners, and representatives of the car companies.
The exclusive Car LoanCampaign was launched earlieron the 15th of June and continueduntil the end of September inall Fransabank’s branchesspread over the Lebaneseterritory.
During this exceptional 3months promotional period,applicants for a Car Loan gotthe chance to enter 3 drawswhich took place successivelyin August, September, andOctober, under the supervisionof the Lebanese NationalLottery Directorate, to win back$20.000 of their car loanamount.
In the ceremony, Mr. El Hajjcongratulated, on the behalf of
Fransabank Announces Three Winners in Fransabank’s Car Loan Campaign
Fransabank, the three winners:Ms. Catherine Lewis Azzi, Ms.Alice William Choueiry, and Mr.Elie Bebes. He also thanked allthe customers who intensivelyapplied during the campaignperiod, praising at the sametime Fransabank’s team“whose combined efforts haveled to meet our consumers’needs in the best and fastestway.”
It’s worth noting that cus-tomers’ demand for car loansin Fransabank has significantlygrown compared to last year,and this new loan in particularhas granted Fransabank’sclients the opportunity to buy abrand new car with the mostcompetitive conditions, monthly
payments for up to 5 years, andat low-interest rate, with a downpayment amounting to 25% ofthe car amount, and customers’demand for car loans inFransabank has significantlygrown compared to last year.
The Winners with Fransabank’s Team
The 3 winners with Mr. Philippe Hajj and Mr. Elie Semaan
Fransabank Sends 14 Lucky Customers to Watchthe UEFA Champions League Final Live!
Reinforcing its commitment to reward its loyal customers and at the sametime to support sports events, Fransabank is the sole Lebanese Bank forthe third year in a row, which grants a golden chance to its MasterCardcardholders to watch live one of the most prestigious sporting events inEurope - the UEFA Champions Games! The 14 winners will attend, quarterfinals, semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League 2016, and an exceptionalopportunity to attend the thrilling Final which will be played at the San Sirostadium in Milan, Italy, on 28 May 2016.
Prizes comprise of an all-expense-paid trip for each of the 14 customers,including return airline tickets,luxurious five-star hotel accom-modation, match tickets and on-ground transportation to and fromthe stadium, in addition to the spe-cial treatment and VIP hospitalityprovided by the MasterCard team.
The campaign - from November 4th
2015 till April 28th 2016 - is witnessing,as in every year, enthusiasticresponse from the Bank’scustomers who actively use theirMasterCard payment solutions,thus increasing their chances inthe draw, while enjoying thepractical, safe and convenientpurchasing experience whichFransabank offers.
The chance to attend the UEFA Champions League has allowed Fransabankto stimulate card utilization of purchase and at the same time hascontributed to increasing the number of MasterCard payment cards issuedby the Bank. This in turn reflects the customers’ trust in Fransabank ingeneral and its Credit Cards Division in specific.
Fransabank’s leadership in this field has been consolidated locally throughits keenness to provide excellent services and preferential benefits to card-holders, and its constant quest for innovation and rewarding offeringswhich meet customers’ needs and aspirations.
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The Green Bank
Fransabank a Major Key Playerin Beirut Energy Forum:“Role of Banks in Financing Energy Projects in Lebanon”
Before of the MOU signaturetook place, Fransabankheld a panel under the title“Role of Banks in FinancingEnergy projects inLebanon” to discuss and
tackle global and local sustainability issues, and in the presence of repre-sentatives from the economic and banking sectors.
A focus on climate change perspectives in Lebanon and Fransabank’s commit-ment towards environment through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)achievements and targets was presented by Mrs. Dania Kassar, Head ofMarketing & Corporate Communication. Her presentation comprised a globaloverview on worldwide climate change issues.
Within the framework of the Fransabank’s strategy to support investments inthe fields of sustainable energy, and as part of its initiatives which have successivelyproven the Bank’s commitment and contribution in the future energy,environmental and social fields, Fransabank, represented by its GeneralManager Mr. Nadim Kassar, IPT - represented by its President Dr. Toni Issa,and Phoenix Energy – represented by CEO of Indevco Mr. Neemat Frem, signeda Memorandum of Understanding on the implementation of IPT Energy andEnvironmental Management Strategy (EEMS). The MOU aimed to transform IPTStations into green and sustainable stations in a ceremony held at Le RoyalHotel in Dbayyeh on September 11th, under the patronage and in the presence ofHis Excellency the Minister of Energy and Water Mr. Arthur Nazarian, and aspart of the 2015 Beirut Energy Forum.
During the signing of the agreement
In parallel, Fransabank’sstrategic Go Green initiativewhich includes SustainableEnergy Finance in its coreactivities and its implementationwithin the bank, this waspresented by Mr. GeorgesAndraos, Head of InternationalDivision in Fransabank.
A video detailing Fransabank’sstrategy and engagementtowards a greener Lebanon andincluding three success storieswas shown to the large audiencethat attended the panel. It com-prised a focus on a steel factory(Zeenni Steel), a petrol station(Hypco) and an agriculturalfarm’s (Sakr Farm) energy
efficiency and renewable energymeasures. The 3 projects weresuccessfully implemented andthe clients expressed theirsatisfaction with Fransabank’steam, the knowledge andexpertise they provided, and thesubstantial financial reward thisproduct offered to their busi-nesses.
Mr. Nadim Kassar stressed onthe significance of Beirut Forumof Energy being held in theseparticular circumstances, wherethe world faces serious environ-mental challenges, leadingseveral oil and non-oil-producingcountries to look for renewableenergy, pointing out thatLebanon has rich resources tomake use of renewable energies,such as solar and others. Kassaradded that Fransabank activelyfinances sustainable energyprojects which cover all sectorsof the economy.
Finally, Mr. Arthur Nazarianpraised in his speech "this fruitfulcooperation which motivates theprivate sector to enter the decen-tralized production of renewableenergy technologies," wishing allsuccess to the conference and tothis panel in particular, vowing toexert all efforts for the sake ofachieving economic growth ofLebanon and its development overthe coming years.
The speakers on podium
Overview of the Press ConferenceFransabank’s General Manager Mr. NadimKassar giving his speech
The Green Bank
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Fransabank’s Eco-Business Loan
Through this loan, Fransabank aims at helping the clients find tailored solutionsfor energy savings, increased capacity or production and reduction of electricalor thermal needs. The Eco-Business Loan from Fransabank helps adopt cleanenergy, and provides clients with cost effective access to energy efficienttechnology and equipment for a higher level of productivity.
Fransabank, and in parallel with its contribution in Beirut Energy Forum,redesigned and presented its eco business loan, stating key facts and accuratenumbers about how sustainable energy can improve the business development.
Fransabank Participates in COP 21 Conference:“Partout dans le monde, financiers et entrepreneurs agissent pour le climat”
The session was highly interactivewith participants sharing theirexperience on launching andmanaging Energy projects on onehand and financing these projectson the other hand. Participantscame from very diverse countriesand regions such as Togo, Morocco,Tunisia, Mexico, Brazil, Belgiumand France, in addition toFransabank from Lebanon.
Regarding the situation in Lebanon,Mr. Nadim Kassar mentioned theongoing change in mentalities andthe different initiatives that arebeing launched all over Lebanon;especially with the country’sdepletion of natural resources,insisting on the role of the privatesector to take urgent action.
On another note, and regardingFransabank’s Corporate SocialResponsibility, Mr. Kassarexplained that being the firstregistered Bank in Lebanon as wellas the 3rd largest Banking Group inLebanon, Fransabank has a longhistory and has achieved severalsocial responsible initiatives. Headded, “Fransabank has more than90-year-old history through whichit has played as an active contributorto the community and maintainedits social responsibility commitmentthrough several social responsibleinitiatives.”
In this context, Mr. Kassar stressedon Fransabank’s “Green Strategy”and shared the Bank’s experiencein offering financing for energyprojects explaining that convincing
The United Nations Climate Change Conferences are yearly conferences that serve to assess progress formore than 190 countries or unions in dealing with climate change, and beginning in the mid-1990s, to negotiatethe Kyoto Protocol to establish legally binding obligations for developed countries to reduce their greenhousegas emissions. Last year on the 7th of December in Le Bourget near Paris, Fransabank, represented by itsGeneral Manager Mr. Nadim Kassar, participated in the side event: “Partout dans le monde, financiers etentrepreneurs agissent pour le climat” or “All around the world, financiers and contractors act for the climate”which took place during the annual Conference of Parties (COP21).
clients to take loans / financing forgreen loans was not an easy task.Mr. Kassar pointed out thatFransabank partnered with IFC totrain over 150 employees at thebank, and provided them withnecessary expertise to promotesustainable energy finance products.“Today,” Mr. Kassar added,“Fransabank boasts itself with aspecialized dedicated team to makefinancial contributions to environ-mental organizations and projects.”
It’s worth noting that Fransabankhas integrated in its commercialprospection and follow-up withexisting clients, an approach toenquire on their energy use andtheir environmental and socialimpacts. This has helpedFransabank, in coordination withthe client, to identify the need toinitiate, replace, implement orupgrade new methods to decreasegreenhouse gas emissions andincrease social welfare within anaccepted budget.
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The Citizen Bank
Fransabank Celebrates with LAU: a Leader’s Commitment to Education
“President Kassar, you are anexample. You are a role model forall of us, and we thank you for that,”said Joseph G. Jabbra, president ofLAU, in his welcoming remarks.
Jabbra thanked Kassar for his com-mitment to LAU, and his contribu-tion to the university, referring toKassar’s recent generous donationon December 10, 2015 when LAUinaugurated in its Beirut campusthe “Adnan Kassar School ofBusiness”.
Kassar’s donation is one of thebiggest philanthropic investmentsin the university’s history. “Your giving has allowed LAU toreally build a house of wisdom – acity of hope for our youth, for yoursons and daughters, and for yourgrandsons and daughters,” statedJabbra.
The welcome note also included apresentation, recognizing Kassar’sgreatest achievements during hiscareer as a lawyer, banker, andleader of prominent economicassociations worldwide.
LAU held its fourth annual Fundraising Gala Dinner on December 10, 2015,honoring a longtime friend and supporter and paying tribute to hisadmirable contributions, HE Mr. Adnan Kassar, Chairman of FransabankGroup. The event, hosted at the Phoenicia Hotel, paid special recognition toKassar’s generous gift of $10 million toward the naming of the AdnanKassar School of Business, and it was attended by many of the region’smost recognized political, economic, academic, and cultural figures.
HE Mr. Adnan Kassar delivering his speech Mr. Jabbra thanking HE Mr. Kassar during the gala dinner
The $10 million donation is one ofthe biggest philanthropic invest-ments in the university’s history –and will go toward ensuring thatthe Adnan Kassar School ofBusiness continues to bring aboutpositive growth and developmentfor Lebanon and the region.
“With pride, and with completeconfidence, I chose to have myname linked with LAU, a leadinguniversity in Lebanon. I specificallywanted to be affiliated with theuniversity’s school of business,and my ambition is for the school
to carry my values and missiontoward peace and education,” saidKassar in his speech.
With a history of endowments toLAU dating back to 2001, Kassar isa steadfast supporter of thecommunity, with a special passionfor education. He has contributedto various LAU scholarship grantsand educational conferenceswhich provide students with edu-cational opportunities that willhelp them make a positive impacton society.
Mr. Jabbra and HE Mr. Kassar cutting the cake which is a miniature of Adnan Kassar School of Business
The Citizen Bank
Chairman and Vice-Chairman of Fransabank, Messrs. Adnan and Adel Kassar, Honored during USG Gala Dinner
USJ President, Père Selim Daccache thanked Messrs. Adnan and AdelKassar for their commitment to educating hundreds of current and formerstudents, mentioning that “they both were former students of the universityas they graduated from its Law School and never failed to support theuniversity since, which makes them two of the most influentialLebanese figures in the corporate social responsibility.”
Université Saint-Joseph de Beyrouth invited Messrs. Adnan and AdelKassar, Fransabank Group’s President and Vice President to its GalaDinner, which was held on May 21st, 2015 at Phoenicia Hotel, during whichthe two Kassars were honored by USJ as major contributors to education ingeneral and the university in particular.
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Fransabank Participates in USJ 140-YearAnniversary: “Together for Building the Future”
Multiculturalism is becoming a widely spread reality in our contemporarysocieties, while no legal answers are made available that would contributeto lessen the differences inherent to the organization of such pluralistsocieties.
The conferences shed the light on these issues and challenges and broughttogether major Universities and researches in all fields from the country andfrom the entire region to become the major academic research event for all.
Fransabank was keen to support these conferences, as they represent asignificant opportunity to experience collaboration between different teamsof researchers and an occasion to share knowledge and experience.
Celebrating 140 years, Université Saint-Joseph de Beyrouth organizedand hosted several events and conferences all through 2015 under themoto: “Together for Building the Future”. Fransabank sponsored theconference of Faculty of Law and Political Sciences about with thefollowing topic: The Law in Multicultural Societies.
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The Citizen Bank
Fransabank’s Family Lives the Celebratory Spirit of the Holy Month
The kids expressed enthusiasm andhappiness in watching the movie andlater in gathering around for iftar,which was an opportunity forFransabank family to share thecelebratory spirit of the Holy month.
The event was attended byFransabank’s General Manager Mr.Nadim Kassar, in addition to branchmanagers and regional managers,staffs, and Marketing Departmentrepresentatives who greeted the
children, distributed gifts to them,and wished them a blessed Ramadan.
In this context, HE Mr Adnan Kassarpointed out that orphan children needall the financial, social and emotionalsupport to promote their healthygrowth and help them becomeproductive individuals in the community,wishing all the blessings of the holymonth for Lebanon and the Lebanesepeople, and hoping for stability,security and peace of mind.
Being fully aware of the strategic and critical role played by private institutionsfor society at large, and for children in particular, Fransabank held, and at theinvitation of its President HE Mr Adnan Kassar, an Iftar for 75 children from theSocial Welfare Institute’s Orphanage at Crepaway in Sodeco, which was precededby attending ABC Cinemas to watch “The Prophet”.
Fransabank Advocates for Peace with Ramadaniyat Beirutiya 2015 in BIEL
During the holy month ofRamadan, Fransabank was keenalso to sponsor one of the largestand most popular Ramadan eventsRamadaniyat Beirutiya 2015 whichtook place from the 1st to the 4th ofJuly in Biel. The annual culturaland social festival was very
promising to revive Beirut’s authentic Ramadan ambiance, while promotingthe virtues of the holy month embodied in the values of brother-hood, sympathy, tolerance, solidarity, love, and peace.
This year’s festival was under the theme “Islam, Advocacy for Peace”, andthe event took the visitors on a cross cultural unforgettable journeythrough the universal language of art, music, dance and food.
Conveying a message of hope thatthe coming year may carry morebliss and joy, and aiming atdrawing smiles on the faces of240 children, selected by theMinistry of Social Affairs fromvarious Lebanese charities,Fransabank hosted in itsHeadquarters at Hamra Street on30th of December 2015, a“Christmas Holiday Food Drive”event for these children comingfrom various regions of the capitalBeirut. The Event was organizedby Beirut Celebrations, in partner-ship with the Lebanese FoodBank, and it included dinner,recreational activities, games,musical shows, along with giftdistribution.
Representatives of Fransabank,
Beirut Celebrations, the LebaneseFood Bank and the participatingcharities were present at theevent and shared the childrentheir joy, chanting Christmassongs.
In this context, Mrs. Dania Kassar,Head of Fransabank’s Marketingand Corporate CommunicationDepartment, expressed theBank’s appreciation to the effortsof both organizers, BeirutCelebrations and the LebaneseFood Bank, mentioning in particularand shedding light on the latter’svision “to eliminate hunger inLebanon by 2020," stressing that“corporate social responsibility ispart of Fransabank’s strategy inwhich poverty reduction is at thetop of its priorities.”
Fransabank Hosts a Christmas Holiday Food Drivefor 240 Children at the Headquarters
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The Citizen Bank
Fransabank Grants Financial Support inFulfillment of Neonate Fund’s Aspiration to“Shine a Light” on Premature Births
Fransabank’s commitment to humanitarian causes had already shown itself insponsoring many health related institutions and initiatives. Sponsoring theNeonate Fund Gala Dinner last December, Fransabank is once again proving toprioritize health issues on the list of its corporate social responsibilities, lendinga helping hand to those who deserve to live a healthier life, a happier life!
Each year in Lebanon, around 8,500babies are admitted to NeonatalIntensive Care Units upon delivery.These babies are born either too soonor too sick to survive on their own.The Neonate Fund is a charitableinitiative which was launched in 2011by mothers whose newborns required
immediate medical attention. Theydecided to join hands to help needyfamilies whose newborns are beingcared for in the NICU.
Having realized how devastating thisexperience can be, Fransabank isdedicated to assisting those lessfortunate and to ensure that theirnewborns get adequate medical care,regardless of their families’ financialcircumstances. The Bank sponsoredthe Neonate Gala dinner onDecember 18th 2015 which reflects amission to facilitate and raise publicawareness about premature births,the number 1 killer of newbornsworldwide, thus contributing in anawareness campaign on the local aswell as the global level.
Fransabank Brings Life, Health and Hope withSkoun and Oum el Nour
Fransabank’s commitment to health issues related to bringing life, healthand hope to people suffering from addiction had clearly shown itself in itscontribution with Skoun, and sponsoring its Gala dinner which was held onOct 10th 2013.
T h eLebaneseorganiza-
tion, Skoun, is the first outpatienttherapeutic facility in Lebanon thatoffers prevention and treatment todrug users; thus Fransabank’sconsistent contribution to theirannual dinner reflects the Bank’sbelief in the mission and vision ofthis non-profit Lebanese organiza-tion.
Fransabank supports Skoun,aiming to help people with addictionproblems claim their lives byproviding a nonjudgmentaltreatment and counseling.
In the samec o n t e x t ,
Fransabank donated for the secondconsecutive year a full year treat-ment of one patient at Oum el Nour,a lebanese not-for-profit non-Governmental Organization , whichcommitted to prevent and treatsubstance abuse.
Fransabank aims with this initiativeto serve individuals throughempowering them to make healthychoices, and helping them reinte-grate society and become a positiveasset to their communities.
The Citizen Bank
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Fransabank Paves “Roads for Life”
For six years now, Fransabank has accompanied Roads for Life in itsmission to raising awareness and empowering young people to besafe on roads, while insuring the right treatments for injured after acar crash with the objective of saving lives and alleviating routeaccidents’ damages. This year again, Fransabank was a major supporterin Roads for Life’s Gala dinner which was held at Phoenicia Hotel onNovember 10, 2015.
Optimizing the chances of survivalfor victims in the “Golden Hour ofTrauma” or the first 60 minutesfollowing the accident necessitatedimplementing specialized programnamely ATLS ( Advanced TraumaLife Support) a systematic,concise training for ER doctors forthe early care of trauma patients.
Fransabank has engaged insponsoring all doctors, fromprivate and public hospitalsspread on all Lebanese territoryto evaluate and treat traumavictims according to currentguidelines. In 2015, 70 physiciansfrom over 76 hospitals have beentrained in 5 ATLS courses andreceive certificates in collaborationwith AUBMC.
Fransabank believes that withcontributing in such socialresponsibility initiatives, whetherthrough funding or raising aware-ness, results can be achieved toreinforce every citizen’s right tolife.
Fransabank Celebrates the Memory of Charles de Gaulle
The Appeal of 18 June orL’Appel du 18 juin was afamous speech by Charlesde Gaulle, the leader of theFree French Forces, in1940. The appeal is con-sidered to be the origin ofthe French Resistance tothe German occupationduring World War II.
Fransabank along withFrench, Lebanese, and French-Lebanese, all celebrated the memory ofGeneral de Gaulle.
Under the patronage of HE Mr. Rony Araygi, Minister of Culture ofLebanon, and HE Mr. Patrice Paoli, Ambassador of France in Lebanon, anoutstanding evening of commemoration took place on 18 June 2015, inDeir El Kalaa, Convent Saint Jean, to mark the seventy-fifth anniversaryof the Appeal of General Charles de Gaulle.
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42The Citizen Bank
Fransabank and Brave Heart Fund at the BDL Beirut Marathon 2015
Every year, 1 in 100 babies isdiagnosed with congenital heartdisease at birth; that’s almosthalf a million children worldwidedying of congenital heart disease,the lives of at least 400 childrencan be saved each year inLebanon.
Fransabank is always keen tocontribute in saving the lives ofunderpriv i leged childrendiagnosed with Congenital HeartDisease, and the Fund helps savechildren in need and fulfill themission of Brave Heart.
"NO CHILD SHOULD DIE OF HEART DISEASE BECAUSE OF A LACK OF FUNDS."
With this Brave Heart Fund mission statement, and within the social corporateresponsibility which the Bank is committed to, Fransabank sponsored the BraveHeart Fund at the BDL Beirut Marathon 2015.
Fransabank Sponsors a Football Amity Game;“One Lebanon, United for Tomorrow”
“Together we are Stronger: One Goal, One Audience, One Lebanon!”With those words the “ONE LEBANON” team rocked the football pitch at NotreDame de Jamhour in a friendly game against ambassadors/diplomats but allunited as a One Lebanon team. Fransabank participated and sponsored theevent which was dedicated to Lebanon’s Amity.
Ambassadors and diplomats fromthe British, German, Danish andAustralian embassies played againstthe ONE LEBANON team consistingof Lebanese celebrities, business-men and friends of ONE LEBANONnamely Michel Fadel, Tony AbouJaoude, Walid Doumiati, Silvio Chiha,Dr. Fouad Zmokhol, Philippe deBustros, Jade Haddad, JohnnyFenianos, Nassib Madi, TonyFenianos and Paul Ibrahim; provingonce again the power of sports inuniting people and breaking allbarriers.
Lebanese Soprano Tania Kassis,Founder and President of ONELEBANON who has recently receiveda Murex d’Or as “LebaneseAmbassador of InternationalTheatres in the world” and for hersong WATANI as the “Best PatrioticSong” of the year said: “The world isunited today through the ambassadorsof foreign countries to supportLebanon and they are at the sametime challenging the Lebanese to beunited and win! Whoever wins,Lebanon is a winner!”
On the occasion, Mrs. Dania Kassar,Head of Marketing and CorporateCommunication Department inFransabank, commented: “Thosebehind this initiative have a visionwhich showcases Lebanon's talent,”adding that: “Fransabank is proud tobe among the enthusiastic andvibrant supporters present at thegame in such a citizen-drivenmoment when the Lebanese showtheir resilience and hope.”
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The Citizen Bank
Fransabank, a Partner in Baalbeck International Festival 2015
Having always been a model of consis-tency and perseverance, at good timesand difficult circumstances, the Festivalhas, and for more than fifty years, intro-duced Lebanon to the rest of the world,and brought the world to Lebanon,hosting an elite selection of the mostfamous artists and stars, attractingpatrons of Art from Lebanon as well asfrom all over the world.
This year, Fransabank again sponsoredBaalbeck International Festivals. In thiscontext, HE Mr. Adnan Kassarcommented: “Fransabank consolidatesits partnership with the Festivalbecause it has become a legacy in thecultural fabric of the Lebanese collectivememory and artistic identity, attracting,from everywhere, this diversity ofpeople, who become united by theirpassion for an aesthetic experience -
a journey which improves annually to the peak of all standards and criteria, reflectingthe greatness of the nation, the largeness of the city, and the glory of history.”
Committed to its cultural social responsibility, it is within the core of Fransabank’sstrategy, mission and vision to stay close to the communities it serves, providingthem with high quality service. In this context, Fransabank was proud to be a majorpartner in Baalbeck International Festival 2015 for the fourth year in a row.
Fransabank Sponsors Beiteddine Festivals 2015
The prodigiously gifted sopranoAnna Netrebko, who is con-sidered as the biggest interna-tional star the opera world hashad since Luciano Pavarotti,appeared in Beiteddine afterher appearance at the SalzburgWhitsun Festival.
Netrebko has appeared in allthe world’s great opera housesincluding the MetropolitanOpera, London’s Royal OperaHouse, La Scala, Vienna StateOpera, Paris Opera, Berlin StateOpera, and the MariinskyTheatre.
Her beautiful, dark, distinctivevoice and her elegant andalluring stage presence - allcombined with a dazzlingcharisma – made the nights ofBeiteddine Festivals very unfor-gettable.
Along with its partnership with Baalbeck festival, Fransabank in 2015,sponsored another one of the most outstanding festivals not only inLebanon but also the Middle East, Beiteddine.
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The Citizen Bank
Fransabank at the Heart of Batroun, Ehmej and Tannourine 2015
Fransabank in 2015, sponsored anotherthree cultural festivals; Batroun, Ehmej,and Tannourine Festivals, conveyingtheir universal messages as anexpression of faith in Lebanon’s culturalrole, an embodiment of ingenuity, a callfor peace and a mirror of Lebaneseprosperous history. The three festivalsannually presents unique viv idperformances by Lebanese artists, aswell as international art exhibits popularstars coming to Lebanon from all overthe world.
Within its arts and music initia-tives, Fransabank also focuseson supporting classical musicevents to make it accessible tobroader audiences and increasethe availability of quality musiceducation. The Bank sponsoredthis year the concerts of TheLebanese Band Association forthe Promotion of Music,“LeBAM”.
In all its music initiatives,Fransabank sponsors live musicalconcerts aiming at broadeningaccess, providing a source ofinspiration for local communities,and allowing the public to benefitthis cultural opportunity.
Fransabank Encourages Music with LeBAM’s Concerts
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Our People, Our Assets
Fransabank’s Holiday Gathering
Christmas has always been a time to celebrate with families, kids, friends,and colleagues. Fransabank’s staff got together last Christmas atKidzMondo and enjoyed every aspect of their yearly Staff Kids’ event,enjoying like every year a family atmosphere festive celebration.
Adding to the excitement of spending amerry Christmas with children, was avery special festive day at KidzMondo,which is more than just a theme park. Itis a full-blown city scaled down to thesize of a kid's world.
With more than 80 establishments and120 activities, the staffs’ kids experiencedevery detail of an adult life in an educa-tional and entertaining environment.The event was simply a fun and originalexperience to spend a day with children,and a way to get active and get to knowother colleagues better, outside theoffice, which enhances in Fransabank’sfamily a sense of belonging.
