Minister of Culture, Mohammed Wissam Mortada, welcomed on Wednesday the Austrian Ambassador to Lebanon, Rene Paul Amery, with whom he discussed bilateral relations, especially in the field of culture.

The Austrian ambassador pointed out that "his country is seeking to further develop relations with Lebanon in the cultural and archaeological fields, and wants to implement exchange programs in the archaeological sector."

Minister Mortada, in turn, said: "The challenges that Lebanon is facing at present are major, be it in terms of waste in public finances or what happened to depositors' money, or at the level of depriving the Lebanese people of the chance of building a state and institutions worthy of them and their civilized heritage. The biggest challenge, however, lies in the restoration of Lebanon's image. The role of the Ministry of Culture at this level is pivotal, and Lebanon and the Ministry of Culture are waiting for the necessary support from every friendly country, led by Austria, as we take on this challenge and perform our duties."