The Regie’s Sports Committee celebrated the Resistance and Liberation Day.
The Committee’s chief Mr. Rafic Sbeity spoke on behalf of the Regie’s President and General Director Eng. Nassif Seklaoui, stressing “this national achievement that liberated Lebanon from the Israeli occupation”.
He recalled as well the role that the Regie played during the years of occupation “by supporting farmers within the occupied land to enable them to stay in their land". Hence, tobacco plant became a symbol of steadfastness and survival".
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These machines were acquired by the institution through approvals from the Cabinet, His Excellency the President, or successive Finance Ministers. Additionally, some of those machines were procured through bids and contracts with private sector entities, ensuring the protection of public funds and securing the national interest.
This successful partnership between the public and private sectors has led to an increase in the production rate to 120,000 boxes per month, prompting international tobacco companies to compete and manufacture their key products in our factories. It has also contributed hundreds of millions of dollars to the state treasury.
Fourth, the purchase of filters and other essential materials for cigarette production follows transparent public bidding processes in accordance with the laws and regulations. The Ministry of Finance oversees these procedures, and bidders are selected based on terms and conditions that prioritize the interests of the treasury and the continuity of this vital facility of the Regie.
Fifth, the Regie’s Director General, Eng. Seklaoui, who is entrusted with its management and operates within the framework of the state laws, consistently emphasizes that the institution's profits belong to the state and are the result of the dedicated efforts of its employees; as such, the decision to involve third parties in it is not worth responding to. Since he assumed leadership of the institution, the net profits directed to the treasury have exceeded 8 billion dollars.
Sixth, the Regie, widely acknowledged as one of the most accomplished public entities, enjoying the recognition of ambassadors from major nations, has always operated under the Lebanese judiciary supervision. Therefore, it rejects the victimization campaigns launched by individuals with ulterior motives and agendas.
We have faith in the wisdom of the judicial bodies and trust that they will put an end to baseless accusations and preserve the institution's esteemed reputation.
Last, it should be known to the former minister that he will not achieve his desired objective.
May God safeguard Lebanon from such individuals.