Poland in Lebanon

Polish traces in Lebanon and Poles connected to Lebanon are commemorated in the Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve in Lebanon as part of a project promoting the preservation of biodiversity and nature conservation in the Ehden region, and providing a lasting symbol of the historical presence of Poles in Lebanon, dating back to the 19th century.

 On 21^st June, an event promoting environmental awareness was held at the Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve. During the event, which was well attended by the Polish community, NGOs and environmental organisations, representatives of the diplomatic corps and local authorities, a plaque dedicated to ‘The Polish Forest’ and Poles connected to Lebanon was officially unveiled.  Two birds that  had been nursed back to health by the Polish Aid supported Lebanese Migratory Bird Association, led by Michel Sawan, were released back into the wild, and it is hoped that they will take their place in the local eco-system and help protect the forest.  Participants were also treated to stories about Polish nature and traditional legends told in Arabic by Lebanese storyteller Shadi Saad, planted dozens of new trees and concluded the day with a scenic hike along one of the reserve’s trails.

 In their speeches, Dr. Aleksandra Bukowska-McCabe, Polish Ambassador to Lebanon and Eng. Sandra Koussa Saba, Director of the Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve, both emphasised the positive impact of such initiatives, drawing attention to the global importance of protecting flora and fauna.

 'The Polish Forest' project promotes Poland as a country by contributing to efforts for sustainable reforestation and protection of the natural environment and will be continued by the Embassy in the coming years. The Embassy launched a reforestation initiative at Horsh Ehden, the oldest national reserve in Lebanon, in 2023.