NNA 11/01/2025

NNA - The Media Office of Public Works and Transport Minister, steps up preparations for pope Leo XIV’s apostolic visit to Lebanon

NNA - The Media Office of Public Works and Transport Minister, Fayez Rasamny, on Friday announced that, in preparation for the historic Apostolic Visit of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV to Lebanon from November 30 to December 2, 2025, the ministry is intensifying field efforts to rehabilitate and upgrade several key roads and routes that will form the path of papal processions and events.

Under Minister Rasamny’s directives, ongoing works aim to ensure smooth and safe traffic for all visitors during this major national and spiritual occasion.

These projects fall within the comprehensive plan approved by the Cabinet in its session of October 23, 2025, reflecting the state’s commitment to achieving the highest levels of readiness and public safety.

Ongoing works include:

  • Jounieh–Bkerke–Harissa Road: Comprehensive rehabilitation with paving, marking, and installation of hybrid lighting from Fouad Chehab Bridge through Bkerke and the Apostolic Nunciature to the Basilica of Our Lady of Lebanon and Bethania, residence of the papal delegation.
  • Jal El-Dib–Deir El-Salib Road: Full resurfacing from Laqis Restaurant to the monastery entrance.
  • Annaya–St. Charbel Monastery Road: Upgrading and paving works along the spiritual route leading to the monastery.
  • BIEL Square–Waterfront: Preparation of the site for the central liturgical celebration, with organized access routes and crowd management measures.

The ministry confirmed that works are being carried out in close coordination with the Council for Development and Reconstruction and monitored on-site by specialized technical teams, ensuring modern standards and infrastructure sustainability that reflect Lebanon’s dedication to the success of this unifying event.