Lebanon Eyes Artificial Intelligence as a Key Driver for Economic Recovery, Finance Minister Yassine Jaber Says

Artificial intelligence is poised to play a transformative role in Lebanon's future as the nation navigates a path toward economic stability, Finance Minister Yassine Jaber announced on Monday.

Speaking during a discussion at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, Mr Jaber responded to a query from The National by highlighting the global and domestic impact of the technology. Other Middle Eastern nations, including the UAE and Saudi Arabia, have already made substantial investments in AI, which experts believe could drive unprecedented levels of innovation. "AI is not only going to be playing a major role in Lebanon, it is going to be playing major role into the world," Mr Jaber stated.

Kamal Shehadi, Lebanon's Minister of State for Technology and AI appointed in 2025, recently noted that 2,500 Lebanon residents participated in an AI training initiative organized by Zaka, an online education platform based in the Middle East. Highlighting the nation's ambitions, Mr Shehadi posted on X last week about integrating AI into higher education, health care, creative industries, manufacturing, and business services to master the technology swiftly.

Demonstrating this commitment firsthand, Mr Jaber shared that the Ministry of Finance has introduced an AI spokeswoman named Sawt Al Malia to broadcast economic updates. Instead of traditional written releases, the digital character presents announcements directly to the public. "You will find a lady who is nicely dressed, an AI character who is making our statements, and you can see the degree to which we are believing in AI and pushing for it," he said, adding that the virtual presenter is performing exceptionally well.

Alongside discussions on technological advancement, Mr Jaber addressed Lebanon's ongoing bank restructuring initiatives, the 2027 draft budget, and the severe impact of conflict on the nation. Reinforcing the country's technological push, Lebanon and the World Bank finalized a $150 million loan agreement in August to bolster digital infrastructure. Known as the Digital Acceleration Project, this initiative seeks to modernize government services and reduce reliance on paper documentation and in-person ministry visits for Lebanese citizens.