LOST and VNGI Exchanging Information to benefit Baalbek-Hermel Region

The International Cooperation Agency of the Association of Netherlands Municipalities (VNGI) and Representatives from UNDP gathered in the Lebanese Organization of Studies and Training (LOST) center in Baalbek to discuss the recent addition of the Liaison And Development Office (LDO). The LDO is an internal structure in LOST created recently to support local authorities.

The groups met with Dr. Rami Lakkis the founder of LOST and exchanged information on the local scene; what is going on in Baalbek-Hermel Region in relation the Syrian Crisis. They glossed over the local economic development of the region, how to improve municipal services and local governance.

The LDO takes on the responsibility of linking municipalities with international donors. In order to make services available for the resident's municipalities need to be aware of their needs. The LDO will give municipalities the tools needed to assess the needs of their respective communities and create a bond between citizen and local authority.