International participation at HoReCa 2002, boosted by new country pavilions from Belgium, Cyprus, Italy and Turkey, rose nearly 300 per cent this year, organisers said.
The increased international presence at the Levant's largest and most regional food and hospitality event at BIEL in the Beirut Central District, came despite earlier concerns over the potential negative repercussions of the September 11 attacks in the US on the local and regional exhibition scene. "We are very happy to report that Lebanon and the Middle East continue to be attractive destinations for European hotel and foodservice exhibitors," said Joumana Dammous-Salame, managing director of organising-company Hospitality Services. "We look forward to continuing growth for HoReCa and the region's hoteliers industry over the coming years." Held under the patronage of Lebanese President Emile Lahoud, HoReCa 2002 covered two main events: The "Levant Trade Show for the Hospitality and Foodservice Industries" and the "International Food and Drink Exhibition".