The CMA CGM Group, deployed for the second time the CMA CGM AKNOUL (ro-ro vessel) from its usual service and offered the transportation by land and sea of 50 buses donated by France to Lebanon. This action follows several operations held by the Group to respond to the pressing needs of the country.

CMA CGM promptly decided to take part in this operation in partnership with the French government for the benefit of the Lebanese people. This joint initiative will contribute to the economic recovery of the country by ensuring access to a convenient public service for all citizens. It will also create several recruitment opportunities for bus drivers, as announced by the Minister.

This operation is the result of the efforts of several actors in France: Île-de-France Mobilités and RATP are donating these buses and CMA CGM has offered their transportation, with the support of the Ministry of Economy, Finance and Recovery, the Ministry of Ecological Transition, and the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs.

All 50 vehicles arrived to Beirut today in the presence of H.E. Mr. Ali Hamieh, Minister of Public Works & Transport, H.E. Anne Grillo, French Ambassador to Lebanon and Joe Dakkak, General Manager of CMA CGM Lebanon.

Earlier, CMA CGM offered to repair 45 local buses, which were severely damaged by Beirut port’s blast, confident that this action will improve the daily life of a large segment of the population in various regions.

CMA CGM is committed to the Lebanese Youth: 3 Lebanese talents participated in this operation as part of the vessels’ crew

CMA CGM Group is pleased to announce the presence of 2 Lebanese seafarers and 1 Lebanese officer cadet on board of the CMA CGM AKNOUL. All 3 sailors have been trained at the International Maritime Academy (IMA) to meet up with the international shipping standards. A specialized academic program held in partnership with CMA CGM Group enables all enrolled students to be fully accredited both locally and internationally.

CMA CGM stands by Lebanon and its people

Once again, the Aknoul reaches the Lebanese shore during these unprecedented socio-economic circumstances. Its arrival today succeeds the complimentary shipment that has reached Beirut back in September 2020 carrying more than 2,500 tons of humanitarian aid.

All in all, more than 4,000 tons of humanitarian aid have been transported to Beirut since October 2019, through the “Containers of Hope” program led by the Group’s Foundation, for the benefit of more than 30 Lebanese NGOs and hospitals.

CMA CGM is expanding its human capital in Lebanon with 1,500 employees (versus 250 in 2019), the Group has a strategic presence in the country and offers end-to-end logistics services, ensuring optimal and efficient solutions to its customers.

Strongly attached to its Lebanese roots, the CMA CGM Group believes in the future of Lebanon and will play a leading role in the economic reconstruction of the country. It has always been present alongside its people through various humanitarian and social activities beside its business expansion in sea, land, air and logistics.