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issue Nº11 2015 Outreach to Members Fransabank, the Primarily Partner in the 6 th Session of the Arab China Business Conference, Celebrates the 60-year Journey of Signing the First-of-its-kind Trade Agreement between Lebanon and China in 1955 Local Reach Fransabank Acquires Ahli International Bank sal Business Development Fransabank Reiterates its Commitment to an Arab Common Market Fransabank Sponsors the First Specialized Banking Conference on Financing the Lebanese Economy: “A Strategic Approach towards Economic and Social Development” Fransabank Sponsor of Arab Economic Forum 2015 Fransabank Pioneer to Launch the first Lebanese Card that Speaks Chinese! Fransabank issues Debit Platinum Card Fransabank launches its Car Loan Summer 2015 Promotion Campaign Fransabank Conducts SME and Retail Seminars & Workshops in North Lebanon Fransabank Hosts RiskAnalyst Training Session The Citizen Bank LAU reveals the "Adnan Kassar School of Business” Fransabank inaugurates the 11 th edition of JABAL 2015 Fransabank Announces the Three Winners of the #WeDesign Competition Fransabank Spreads Joy with Ahla Fawda Fransabank is a Key Sponsor in Lebanon’s Marathons Fransabank Restores Hope and “Walks” with Al Younbouh Our People, our Assets Fransabank’s Annual Gathering Ceremony 2015 FBG/FBLB/FBANGLE11/1.0/2015-07

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Page 1: FB Angle - Issue 11

issueNº112015

Outreach to Members Fransabank, the Primarily Partner in the 6th Session of the Arab China Business Conference,Celebrates the 60-year Journey of Signing the First-of-its-kind Trade Agreement between Lebanon and China in 1955

Local Reach Fransabank Acquires Ahli International Bank sal

Business DevelopmentFransabank Reiterates its Commitment to an Arab Common MarketFransabank Sponsors the First Specialized Banking Conference on Financing the Lebanese Economy:“A Strategic Approach towards Economic and Social Development”Fransabank Sponsor of Arab Economic Forum 2015 Fransabank Pioneer to Launch the first Lebanese Card that Speaks Chinese!Fransabank issues Debit Platinum Card Fransabank launches its Car Loan Summer 2015 Promotion CampaignFransabank Conducts SME and Retail Seminars & Workshops in North Lebanon Fransabank Hosts RiskAnalyst Training Session

The Citizen BankLAU reveals the "Adnan Kassar School of Business”Fransabank inaugurates the 11th edition of JABAL 2015Fransabank Announces the Three Winners of the #WeDesign CompetitionFransabank Spreads Joy with Ahla Fawda Fransabank is a Key Sponsor in Lebanon’s MarathonsFransabank Restores Hope and “Walks” with Al Younbouh

Our People, our AssetsFransabank’s Annual Gathering Ceremony 2015

FBG/FBLB/FBAN

GLE11/1.0/2015-07

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issueNº112015

© 2015 All rights reserved. Copying forother than personal or internal referenceuse without express written permissionfrom Fransabank Group is prohibited.

CONTACT US- We need your input.Please contact us with any suggestions or comments at:[email protected]

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CONTENTS

06

Outreach to Members

09Network Reach

• Fransabank sal’s Representative Office in Cuba

• Fransabank, the Primarily Partner in the 6

thSession of the

Arab China Business Conference, Celebrates the 60-year Journey of Signing

the First-of-its-kind Trade Agreement between Lebanon and China in 1955

10

Group Network

• Fransa Invest Bank and Fransabank Launch Sheild & i&i

08Local Reach

• Fransabank Acquires Ahli International Bank SAL

04

Letter to Reader

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38

Our People, Our Assets

• Fransabank’s Annual Gathering Cerem

ony 2015

• Fransabank Fam

ily - Dinner in La Boite

20

The Citizen Bank

• LAU reveals the "Adnan Kassar School of Business”

• Fransabank inaugurates the 11

thedition of JABAL 2015

• Fransabank Announces the Three Winners of the #WeDesign Competition

• Fransabank Records a Vigorous Presence at Universities Job Fairs!

• Al Bustan Festival-Art “Inspiration” to the Nation

• Fransabank Honors the Mem

ory of Zaki Nassif in AUB Zaki Nassif Program

for Music

• Fransabank and USK: Theater, Identity and Survive

• Fransabank Supports “Form, Inform, Transform

” the Public Sector

• Fransabank Supports “Roads for Life”

• Fransabank contributes in The Silk Exhibition at Musée de la Soie – Bsous

• Fransabank Spreads Joy with Ahla Fawda

• Fransabank is a Key Sponsor in Lebanon’s Marathons

• Fransabank Encourages Wom

en and Children to “Rise and Run forward”

• Fransabank is Present in Taya Run, in the Loving Mem

ory of Melanie Freiha

• Fransabank Grants Financial Support in Fulfillment of OpenM

inds’ Fund

• Fransabank Restores Hope and “Walks” with Al Younbouh11

Business Development

• Fransabank Reiterates its Com

mitm

ent to an Arab Common Market

• Fransabank Sponsors the First Specialized Banking Conference

on Financing the Lebanese Economy:

“A Strategic Approach towards Economic and Social Development”

• Fransabank Sponsor of Arab Econom

ic Forum

2015

• Fransabank Pioneer to Launch the first Lebanese Card that Speaks Chinese!

• Fransabank issues Debit Platinum

Card

• Fransabank launches its Car Loan Sum

mer 2015 Promotion Campaign

the UEFA Cham

pions League Final Live in Berlin!

• Fransabank Conducts SM

E and Retail Sem

inars & Workshops in North Lebanon

• Fransabank Hosts RiskAnalyst Training Session

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Letter to Reader

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Dear Valued Reader,

On behalf of Fransabank Family, we arehonored to welcome you to the 11th edition ofFB Angle. The magazine in general outlinesthe local and international operations ofFransabank Group, a Bank with a trusted androbust brand name and a long-standinghistory.

Our achievements and developments in thelocal and international markets and withinour own organization have prompted us tomake clear strategic choices for the year2015.

We would plainly state that the theme of thisyear was innovation, clearly demonstrated bytargeting in a unique way a large clienteledealing with China and its market - one of theworld largest and fast growing economies.

In this field, we have done major stepsrecently; we established a specialized Chinadesk to serve customers who travel to andwork with China, and to support the Chinesecompanies operating in our markets; we alsolaunched the first China UnionPay card inLebanon - a reliable, trustworthy and safemode of payment for clients’ transactions inChina. During the 6th Edition of the ArabChinese Business Conference, Fransabankwas a key partner and it hosted in parallel acorporate gala dinner at Phoenicia Hotelwhich was attended by a Chinese delegationof 250 government figures, and senior officialsfrom the public and private sectors fromLebanon and from more than 15 Arab countries.

In today’s incredibly competitive marketplace, businesses have acknowledged thatthose who will succeed are the ones who putthe customer and community at the heart oftheir business. In this context, we prideourselves of our innovation along with awide-ranging expertise, varied product andservice offering, and service-minded attitude.These are our strengths, and where necessary,we are improving, refining and/or pruningactivities. The trust our clients place in usinspires us to live up to our responsibility ofdelivering excellent results.

We will continue to build strong connectionsin the communities where we live and operate.

We aim to play a continuous valuable role insociety and to act with integrity andresponsibility.

We are sensitive to society’s interests, andwe create a long-term sustainable value forthe communities we serve.

We are immensely pleased to cover in thisissue all the latest corporate events andinitiatives launched by Fransabank in the last6 months, and we’d like to take this opportunityto thank the organizing and technicalprogram committees for spending days andhours to bring this issue to light.

Enjoy reading us.

Fransabank Family

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Outreach to Members

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By the end of May, Lebanon received over 250 high level officials and leaders from both the public andprivate sectors, headed by China’s State Leader H.E. Mr. Wang Zhengwei, to attend the China ArabBusiness Conference, held at the Phoenicia Hotel in Beirut, which gathered for two consecutive days,over 150 high level officials from more than 15 Arab countries and was also attended by over 300Lebanese participants.

The official opening of theconference on May 26th wasunder the high patronage ofLebanon’s Prime MinisterH.E. Mr. Tammam Salam, andin presence of China StateLeader Mr. Wang Zhengweiand Fransabank GroupChairman H.E. Mr. AdnanKassar. The conferencecalled for the building of theeconomic belt of the silk road,drawing on the strategicimportance for Lebanonwhich connects the silk landand maritime roads whichstart from China and connect,through Lebanon, to Europe.

“Lebanon is keen on enhancingtrade relations with China,”

Prime Minister TammamSalam told the Arab-ChineseBusinessmen Conference,vowing that Beirut would be a“reliable” partner. “China hasbecome Lebanon’s top tradingpartner over the last twoyears,” Salam told theconference. “We expect thispartnership to expand andstrengthen the new prospectsfor cooperation.”

Meanwhile, Mr. WangZhengwei, chairperson of the12th National Committee ofthe Chinese People’s PoliticalConsultative Conference, saidthat China is looking forwardto strengthening economicand trade ties with the Arab

world. He also called on allArab countries to take part inthe economic belt of the SilkRoad.

In his turn, H.E. Mr. AdnanKassar, President of theGeneral Union of chambers ofcommerce, industry andagriculture for Arab countriesand President of FransabankGroup, said that the forumwas very important because itfocused on reactivating theold Silk Road while expandingit to in order to meet thedemands of the 21st century.He said Lebanon could play aleading role due its strategiclocation.“This will open newhorizons for further strategiceconomic cooperation andgenerate mutual benefits,”President Kassar inferred.

In the afternoon of the sameday, H.E. Prime MinisterTammam Salam met China’sState Leader and ChairmanKassar at the Grand Serailand then chaired the meetingwith the headed of the Chineseand Arab delegations,expressing the great importanceLebanon attaches to its ties toChina and the promisingpotential for our country fromincreased and stronger ties.

Fransabank, the Primarily Partner in the 6th Session of the Arab China Business Conference, Celebrates the 60-year Journey of Signing the first-of-its-kind Trade Agreement between Lebanon and China in 1955

President Adnan Kassar with the Chinese delegation

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In this context, Fransabank hosteda corporate Gala Dinner atPhoenicia Hotel, in honor of theChinese State Leader H.E. Mr.Wang Zhengwei and the Chineseambassador to Lebanon HE MrJiang Jiang, and in presence ofMrs. Tammam Salam representingPM Tammam Salam, Mr. FaridMakari representing SpeakerNabih Berri, Mrs. Mona Hraoui,Lebanese Ministers Gibran Bassil,Nohad Machnouk Alain Hakim,Michel Pharaon, Arthur Nazarianalong with 250 high level Chineseleaders, and several political,social, economic and diplomaticfigures coming from Lebanon andthe Arab world.

During the Dinner, H.E. PresidentAdnan Kassar delivered a speechin which he welcomed the Chinesedelegation, praised the LebaneseChinese relations and called forstrengthening the economic,commercial and investmentcooperation between the Arabcountries and China.

President Adnan Kassar giving his speech

Cutting the cake

Stand Animation Show

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Local Reach

The Group organic growth has always been driven by the opening of newbranches and expanding the scope of its business activities. In this vein,Fransabank concluded its seventh acquisition and merger operation of AhliInternational Bank SAL, on July 23rd, 2014, which increased substantiallyFransabank Group's Total Assets.

Since then, the integration of the 9branches was smoothly accomplishedbefore the end of the fiscal year. Thisdefinitely consolidated FransabankGroup ranking as the largest branchnetwork in Lebanon, with 124branches strategically spread allover the country, and leveraged thedevelopment efficiency of itsfranchise. The Bank will furtherenrich its leading role in theLebanese economy, and furtherprovide the communities it serves

with a wide basket of products andservices that respond proactivelyto the personal and business wantsand needs.

Acquisition of Ahli International BankSAL comes as Fransabank’s 7th mergeroperation after the Bank has alreadyachieved acquisitions of BanqueTohmé, Universal Bank, United Bankof Saudi and Lebanon, Banque de laBékaa, BLC Bank, and Lati Bank.

Fransabank Acquires Ahli International Bank SAL

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Fransabank representative office in Havana

Minister Gebran Bassil in Fransabank premises

Minister Bassil in Havana

Network Reach

Fransabank SAL’s Representative Office in Cuba

Fransabank SAL’s RepresentativeOffice in Havana was inaugurated in1995, by means of a license grantedby Banco Nacional de Cuba. TheBank was pioneer to be presentamongst the first leading interna-tional banks to expand to Cuba andestablish high level and friendlyrelations with the Cuban authori-ties. The Office is managed by aRepresentative from Beirut andFRANSABANK SAL has providedfinancial services to many Cubanenterprises since 1994.

Recently, on his trip to LatinAmerica, Mr. Gibran Bassile,Lebanese Minister of foreignaffairs, visited Cuba where he wasjoined by Mr. Elias Khalil,Fransabank Group's Cuban repre-sentative, over two days for officialmeetings. Minister Bassile alsovisited Fransabank's Cuban branchwhere he was briefed onFransabank Group's high levelCuban ties and the Bank's pioneeringactivities in Cuba.

Minister Bassile visited Fransabank's Cuban branch where he was briefed onFransabank’ s pioneering activities in Cuba.

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Group Network

Fransa Invest Bank and Fransabank Launch Sheild & i&i

SHEILD

The 5-year structured depositaccount in US dollar offered toFransabank customers with 100%capital guaranteed, offeringguaranteed average coupons of 4%p.a., in addition to participation atmaturity in the performance of abasket of indices. Subscriptionswere successfully closed on 14 April2015. The minimum subscription was$ 5.000.

i&i (Invest & Insure)

The 5-year capital guaranteedproduct combining investment andinsurance (Invest & Insure, I&I) issold at Fransabank branches. Theproduct offers at maturity a grossinterest rate of 25%. As per thelife insurance, the program providestwice the subscribed amount to thebeneficiary(ies). The minimuminvestment is $ 5.000.

Striving to consistently provide its clients with creative financial solutionsthat make a difference and bring added value to their investments, FransaInvest bank SAL worked on a structured deposit product for FransabankSAL - Shield, as well as an investment product proposed in collaborationwith Bancassurance SAL - i&i. Both products were proposed to customersthrough Fransabank’s retail branches.

FIB's solutions are always unique, combining sound advice, solid investments,finance, advanced technology, and smooth operations.

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Business Development

Fransabank Reiterates its Commitment to an Arab Common Market as aPart of the Global Economy and Sponsors the Conference of Chambers ofCommerce, Industry and Agriculture

The Conference was held in thepermanent headquarters of theUnion and was organized incollaboration with the LebaneseFederation of Chambers ofCommerce, Industry andAgriculture, Lebanon’s CentralBank, the InvestmentDevelopment Authority ofLebanon (IDAL), and with thesupport of Fransabank Group,BLC and the ConsolidatedContractors Company CCC.

The two-day event, whichgathered high-profile speakersand attendees, was a hotbed forfeverish discussions on thefinancing opportunities for SME’sin the Arab world and regardingthe future of industry, energy andfood security in the Arab region.

The meetings also underlined theneed to promote dialogue andcooperation between the Arabprivate sector and senior repre-sentatives of the Joint ArabEconomic Action and to fightgrowing high levels of unem-ployment in the region throughcreative solutions.

Final recommendations includedraising community awareness forsupporting the youth, investing invocational schools, creatingrecruitment opportunities andconnecting entrepreneurs withfunding sources.

Within its continuous contribution to mobilize the role of the private sectorin Arab economies in order to achieve Arab economic development andintegration, Fransabank was a sponsor in the 42nd session of theConference of Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture for ArabCountries, which was held on 23 & 24 March 2015 in Beirut under the title:“Future of the Arab economy and regional and internationaltransformations».

President Adnan Kassar receiving an honorary sheild

During the opening session of the conference

Overview of the conference

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Business Development

The Union of Arab Banks, aimed in sucha conference to hold a Lebanese-Arab-international platform with concentrateddiscussions about the strengths andweaknesses of the Lebanese economy,and the development of macroeconomicreform and structural economy.

The sessions tackled the seriousproblems facing the Lebanese economy,and dealt with a number of economicindicators concerning the situationreached by the Lebanese economy,especially in terms of lower economicgrowth rate and high unemployment,and the methods to strengthenLebanon's economy and strengthenconfidence in it, and restore its leadingrole in the region and the world.

Fransabank Sponsors the First Specialized BankingConference on Financing the Lebanese Economy: “A Strategic Approach towards Economic and SocialDevelopment”

Under the title “Lebanese economy: A Strategic Approach towards Economic andSocial Development”, and in line with its leading economic role in Lebanon andthroughout the region, Fransabank sponsored a conference hosted by the Union ofArab Banks at Phoenicia Hotel in Beirut in 1 and 2 April 2015.

The conference was under the auspicesof Dr. Alan Hakim, Minister of Economyand Trade, and in presence of H.E. Dr.Riad Salameh, Governor of the CentralBank, H.E. Mr. Adnan Kassar, Presidentof the Lebanese Economic Organization,Dr. Francois Bassil, President of theAssociation of Banks in Lebanon, Dr.Joseph Tarabay, President of theAssociation of Banks in Lebanon, andsenior officials from Arab and interna-tional institutions.

The conference, which continued for twodays, gathered economic and financialLebanese and Arab as well asinternational institutions involved inLebanese affairs, including the IMF, theUnited Nations, the Central Bank, theFederal Central Bank in Washington, theHungarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs,and Arab Economic Unity Council.

The opening session

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Fransabank Sponsors the Arab Economic Forum 2015

The president of the Council ofMinisters H.E. Mr. Tammam Salaminaugurated the forum, organizedby Al-Iktissad Wal-Aamal Group, incollaboration with the Central bankof Lebanon, the Association ofBanks in Lebanon and theInternational Finance Corporation(IFC) a member of the World BankGroup.

The Forum gathered a large numberof senior officials, heads ofcompanies, banks, investmentgroups, and economists andexperts from Arab and foreigncountries.

More than 450 participants includedprominent politicians and diplomatsas former Prime Ministers FouadSiniora and Najib Mikati, formerSecretary General of the League ofArab States Amr Moussa, and theMinisters Ali Hassan Khalil(finance), Alan Hakim (Economyand Trade), Nabil de Freij(Management Development),

Mohammed Mashnouq (environment),and Arthur Nazarian (energy andwater).

In this edition, Egypt was the guestof honor, and a number of seniorofficials and leaders from the publicand private sectors participated inthe forum and presented the latestdevelopments in the economic andinvestment environment in thecountry. They presented the majorprojects slated for implementation,especially projects that werecommitted to at the Sharm el-SheikhEconomic Conference by manygovernments and Arab and foreignfinancial and investment groups.

This year again, the forumconvened at a time when countriesand economies in the Arab regionare facing major challenges; politicalinstability and violence in somecountries and declining oil pricesthat have impacted economicgrowth, investment and the jobmarket.

A month later, Fransabank was once again present as a major contributor to the development of the Lebaneseeconomy and a major participant in the inauguration of the 23rd edition of the “Arab Economic Forum”, which wasdedicated to the memory of the late Said Khoury and held under his name on May 5th at the Phoenicia Hotel, Beirut.

View of the audience at the Chamber of Commerce,Industry & Agriculture of Saida & South Lebanon

President Adnan Kassar at Arab Economic Forum

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Business Development

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Within its continuous work towards improving the standards ofsatisfying its customers’ needs including those who have businessrelations with China, Fransabank Group launched the first-of-its-kind card in Lebanon, so thatthe holder of this card doesn’t have to worry anymore about carrying cash during his trip since it isaccepted everywhere!

The launching of PlatinumUnionPay Card took place onFebruary 12th, 2015 during apress conference held at AdnanKassar Edifice for ArabEconomy and was under thepatronage of H.E. the Governorof the Central Bank of Lebanon,Dr. Riad Salameh.

The conference was presided bythe Chairman of FransabankGroup, H.E. Mr. Adnan Kassar,with the presence of theAmbassador of the People'sRepublic of China in Lebanon,H.E. Mr. Jiang Jiang, and FirstDeputy Governor of the Central Bank of Lebanon Mr. Raed

Charafeddine, along with agroup of executives in UnionPay,Chinese and Lebanesebusinessmen, as well as pressand media representatives.

H.E. Mr. Adnan Kassar explainedhow Fransabank saw the needfor such a card to offer its clientsa reliable, trustworthy and safemode of payment for theirtransactions in China. He alsomentioned that FransabankGroup had established a ChinaDesk “to serve its customerswho travel to and work withChina, and to support the

Chinese companies operating inour markets, which counts morethan 11 countries whereFransabank is present.

As for the joint agreement signedbetween Fransabank andUnionPay to launch this card,President Kassar assured that“Fransabank Group is now thepioneer, the FIRST to issue thiscard in Lebanon and to competi-tively accept, on all our ATMs atFransabank and BLC as well. Healso mentioned that UnionPaycards can, in fact, be accepted atover 12 million merchants and 1.1million ATMs across the world.”

Messrs. Adnan and Adel Kassar with Mr. Raed Charafeddine and Mr. Jiang Jiang

Mr. Adnan Kassar giving his speech

Launching the card1

Fransabank Pioneer to Launch the First Lebanese Card that Speaks Chinese!

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Fransabank IssuesDebit Platinum Card

Fransabank Launches its Car Loan Summer 2015Promotion Campaign

Fransabank diversifies, once again,its wide range of payment cardsand offers a new debit card forElite, the “MasterCard DebitPlatinum”. The target behind thelaunch of this new card is to triggera change in the perception ofcustomers for debit cards, whichhave mostly been used for ATMwithdrawals.

In line with the Bank’s vision toachieve a cashless society,Fransabank offers the DebitPlatinum Card for multiple usesand incorporates it with the chiptechnology for high security levels.

Fransabank offers this summer anexclusive Car Loan Promotiongiving an opportunity to apply for anew car at most competitiveinterest rates with a chance toenter a draw and win back the carloan amount. Duration of thecampaign is till end of Septemberand 3 draws will be held in August,September and October, under thesupervision of National Lottery, toidentify the lucky winners.

The offer valid on all brand newcars except taxis and the prizeamount is capped at $ 20.000.

Practical, easy and secured; don’t goout without it!

Imagine it. Finance it. You might endup winning it.

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Fransabank Sends 14 Lucky Customers to Watch the UEFA Champions League Final Live in Berlin!

Prizes comprised of an all-expense-paid trip for each of the14 customers, including returnairline tickets, luxurious five-starhotel accommodation, matchtickets and on-ground transportationto and from the stadium, in additionto the special treatment and VIPhospitality provided by theMasterCard team.

Fransabank’s leadership in thisfield has been consolidated locallythrough its keenness to provideexcellent services and preferentialbenefits to cardholders, and itsconstant quest for innovation andrewarding offerings which meetcustomers’ needs and aspirations.

Reinforcing its commitment to reward its loyal customers and at the same timeto support sports events, Fransabank is the sole Lebanese Bank for the secondyear in a row, which grants a golden chance to its MasterCard cardholders towatch live one of the most prestigious sporting events in Europe - the UEFAChampions Games! The 14 winners attended matches of the group stages,quarter finals, and semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League 2015, along withan exceptional opportunity to attend the thrilling Final which took place on June6 in Berlin.

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Business Development

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Fransabank Conducts SME and Retail Seminars & Workshops in North Lebanon

As one of the leading Banks in Lebanon, Fransabank strongly believes in strengthening bonds with its valuablecustomers. In line with this objective, the Bank regularly conducts and supervises SME’s workshops andseminars in all of the Lebanese region and recently in North Lebanon on May 28th , providing consultancyservices to its existing customers and potential clients, and following up with them, which results inFransabank’s business growth.

The seminars were performed bydedicated teams of seniorspecialists, who tackled allservices and products that havebeen proposed or developedrecently in Fransabank.

The workshops in North were asuccess and received excellentfeedback from all attendees.Fransabank will continue toreplicate programs of the Bankto increase its customers’knowledge of the industry, buildup better relations with them,and in turn motivate them to havea more pleasant bankingexperience.Mr. Antoine Zarifeh giving his session

Mr. Elie SemaanMr. Antoine Zarifeh Mr. Mahmoud Tamim

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Business Development

Fransabank Hosts RiskAnalyst Training Session

Major banks for the sector wererepresented by as much as fourparticipants, namely Audi, Blom,Byblos, Bankmed, BLF, Bank ofBeirut, BBAC, Credit Libanais andLebanon and Gulf Bank, alongsideFransabank Group with two of itsaffiliates and subsidiaries LLC,BLC and FSB Algeria.

The training was a combination ofpresentations, demos as well ashands-on training and discussion.

The first two days (Advanced UserTraining) were for the benefit ofexisting RiskAnalyst users (creditofficers/analysts, relationshipmanagers, etc.) with the objectiveof improving their knowledge oncorporate financial analysis(cash-flow analysis, groupconsolidations, financial projectionsand using financial projections inratings) and obtaining a more

In collaboration with Moodys’, Fransabank hosted RiskAnalyst Training sessionsin its Headquarters on the 3, 4 & 5 June, 2015. The three-day RiskAnalysttraining workshop was designed to benefit Moody’s Lebanese client banks andFransabank generously engaged in hosting this training event providing all therequired facilities and equipment.

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detailed understanding of themethodology/logic of theFundamental Analysis (Corporate)rating model.

The third day (Credit RiskManagement Training) benefitedof credit risk managementofficers who are responsible forthe use the RiskAnalyst(borrower/facility rating models)within the bank and for thosewho may be involved in modelvalidation, optimization and PDcalibration with the objective ofacquiring knowledge on the useof the RiskAnalyst Facility RiskRating Module (F-IRB LGDModel) and obtaining an under-standing on the process andtechniques for undertakingmodel validation, optimizationand PD calibration.

Fransabank is always keen tohost events that bring addedvalue to all participants, and thistraining event was indeed a bigsuccess.

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The Citizen Bank

name on the school of business willbe soaring up into the sky in the heartof Ras Beirut.” Dr. Jabbra highlightedalso President Kassar’s set ofqualities in leadership as well as greatachievements in economy andbusiness. “President Kassar wasalways keen in talking to responsiblepeople about the necessity toreduce the government’s interfer-ence in the private sector to ensureits proper growth,” said Jabbra. “Hecontinuously asked them to introducemajor necessary structure reformsin the private sector to ensure itssuccess,” he added.

The signing ceremony was held at thepremises of LAU in the presence ofPresident Adnan Kassar, his brotherMr. Adel Kassar, LAU President Dr.Joseph Jabbra, LAU senior managementin addition to ministers, MPs andmedia representatives.

Thanking President Kassar, Dr.Jabbra said: “Today is PresidentAdnan Kassar’s day at LAU, and fromnow and on, every day will be AdnanKassar’s day at LAU.” He added: “LAUis indeed honored to be the recipientof a $10 million gift from PresidentKassar. In return, LAU will name theschool of business after him. His

Amongst his private initiatives in the area of corporate social responsibility, H.E.Mr. Adnan Kassar proceeds in his philanthropic endeavors and demonstratesone of the biggest donations in the history of Lebanese American University. Inits turn, LAU inaugurated the “Adnan Kassar School of Business” on April 21st asan ethical award to his relentless dedication in the educational field.

President Adnan Kassar and President Joseph Jabra next to the plaque at “Adnan Kassar School of Business”

LAU Reveals the "Adnan Kassar School of Business”

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Moreover, Dr. Jabbra describedPresident Kassar as “anextraordinary human being.” Heelaborated: “Alongside being agreat defender of the privatesector, he is an active participant inthe advancement of society inLebanon and in the entire region.”

In this context, Dr. Jabbrareferred to President Kassar’slong and successful career which“did not stop him from engaginginto philanthropic activities bycontr ibut ing hundreds o fthousands of dollars to Lebaneseorphanages and hospitals inaddition to his sponsorship ofmajor development projects in thecountry.”

Dr. Jabbra concluded: “Today, twoinstitutions, Fransabank and LAU,steeped in history and cametogether to achieve these commongoals.”

From his side, President Kassarexpressed the great significancewhich this occasion means to himpersonally, since it entails thenaming, in perpetuity, of the LAUbusiness building as the AdnanKassar School of Business. Heemphasized in his speech theimportance of the private sector inpromoting economic growth anddevelopment. “I consider privateinitiative as the main source forgrowth and development.Perhaps this explains my deepinvolvement in chambers ofcommerce and industry, which Iconsider as organizers for privateinitiative and for bringing aboutsocio-economic growth anddevelopment,” he said.

“Education and specialization areessential for men and women toacquire knowledge that wouldlead them into life and make them

constructive elements in society,”said President Kassar. “This hasbeen the main reason behind mykeenness to offer scholarships toyoung bright students, in thisUniversity and in others,” heconcluded.

Following the signing ceremony, areception was held on the occasion,after which President Kassar andPresident Jabbra unveiled theplaque at the “Adnan KassarSchool of Business”.

Messrs. Adnan and Adel Kassar in the signing ceremony

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Fransabank Inauguratesthe 11th edition of JABAL 2015

Under the theme «VisionaryArtists where myths anddreams are all aboutLebanon», Fransabankinaugurated on May 13th the11th edition of JABALExhibition, under thepatronage and in the presenceof Mrs. Lama TammamSalam, and H.E. Mr. AdnanKassar, Chairman ofFransabank Group.

The exhibition was attended by over 3.000 visitors who got to discoverthe work of 32 emerging artists in areas of drawings, paintings, pho-tography, installations, sculptures and videos, all under one roof at theSaint-George Hotel.

”It is our responsibility to maintain the legacy of art, by addressing andresolving how civil societies and successful companies can support artistswho cannot - on their own - exhibit and share their creations”, said Mrs.Lama Tammam Salam on that occasion.

In his turn, H.E. Mr. Adnan Kassar declared, «we have always believed inthe potential of our youth and we have always had the will to keep themin their homeland. And through JABAL exhibitions, Fransabank has astrategic mission to offer new horizons to emerging artists and pavetheir paths towards maximizing their potentials.»

During her speech, Mrs. Dania Kassar, Fransabank’s Head of Marketingand Corporate Communication Department, pointed out that «since 1998,

In an era where art and creativity explode to witness increasing merits,Fransabank confirms its role as a supporter to emerging artists and atalents’ discoverer through JABAL; playing once again its leading role indeveloping cultural openness and supporting national vivacity.

The welcome speech by Mrs. Dania Kassar

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JABAL, an exhibition created byFransabank, is an initiativethrough which new talents arediscovered. It has been aspringboard to internationalrecognition for many youngartists exhibiting for the firsttime or for those still unknown inthe art world.”

JABAL's Artistic Committeeselected 32 young talents:

- Rashwan Abdelbaki,- Sara Abou Mrad- Aya Abu Hawash,- Alice Al Khatib,- Anna Amer,- Alina Amer,- Maral Der Boghossian,- Michel El Hachem,- Ramy Ghanem,- Sabyl Ghoussoub,- Azza Haidar,- Lama Hajjar,- Wafa’a Halawi, - Sami Hamaoui, - Poline Harbali, - Lina Hassoun, - Raghad Hazzazi, - Nada Hourie,- Marianne Karam,- Mohamad Khayata, - Bettina Khoury Badr, - Dina Maalouf Katrib, - Liane Mathes Rabbath, - Lamia Muhtar, - Georges Nasr, - Nada Rizk, - Yara Said, - Richard Sammour, - Fadi Stefan, - Marwan Tahtah, - Jacques Vartabedian, - Jana Younes.

Jabal Exhibition

President Adnan Kassar and Mrs. Dania Kassar with Mrs. Lama Salam, Mrs. Nora Joumblatt and Mrs. Raida Daouk

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Within its commitment to invest in promising talents among youth, Fransabank encourages and, mostimportantly, rewards creativity, launching in February 2015 the #WeDesign Competition for architecturestudents from all Universities in Lebanon, and hence announcing on June 15th the 3 winners who hadparticipated and submitted the most adapted facelift of the Bank's headquarters, a landmark inHamra Street.

The competition focused onartistic and technical meritsand featured an outstandingjury panel that reviewed thesubmitted projects and selectedthe top 10 designs. These 10finalists were requested tosubmit a 3D model of theirproposal.

A ceremony was held in theHeadquarters of the Bankwhere the award ceremonytook place and the top 3 finalistsreceived their cash prizes. 1stplace went to Bahaa el DineAbou Khoudoud (Beirut ArabUniversity) who received$10.000, 2nd place went to MarcMatta (University of Balamand)who received $2000, and in the3rd Place was Amani Omairi

Fransabank Announces the Three Winnersof the #WeDesign Competition

(Beirut Arab University) whoreceived $1000.

“Fransabank has alwaysdemonstrated its strong beliefin future generations andworked at promoting themthrough a diverse range ofcontributions,” said Mrs. DaniaKassar, Head of Marketing andCommunication Department.

“Our Bank Competition broughtout talented young architectsand gave them the momentumto achieve excellence in theirpursuit of designing. In thiscontext, the initiative aims atpreserving the rich genre ofArchitecture and offers athrilling opportunity for studentsto be inspired by the famous

architects Alvar Aalto and AlfredRoth, by whom Fransabank’sbuilding was designed. Whenoriginally built, it was an impressivesymbol of modernist architecturein Lebanon.”

Mrs. Kassar added,“The highergoal was to challenge studentsto express and capture theirview of the existing buildingfaçade and the surrounding plazathat represents Fransabank’spositive image and dynamiccorporate culture, while remainingloyal to the original architects’spirit.”

In her turn, Ms. Raida Daouk,Strategy Coordinator inFransabank, congratulatedthe winners and commented,“Fransabank bel ieves thattoday’s students are the hope fora better future, and that we mustcontinue to invest in them. In thisrespect, the initiative exemplifiesthe Bank’s commitment to thenext generation.”

Mrs. Raida Daouk with the top ten finalists

Mrs. Raida Daouk with the top 3 winners

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Fransabank Records a Vigorous Presence atUniversities Job Fairs

In two consecutive months, April and May, Fransabank has participated atLAU, AUB, USJ, and ESA job fairs, where groups of ambitious students,seeking suitable employment or looking forward to adding a twist to theirexisting careers, visited Fransabank booth to inquire more about theBank’s internship programs as well as potential opportunities.

Students had the chance to inquireabout Fransabank’s educationalplans, the various youth-relatedservices such as the UniversityLoan that offers financial facilitiesto students, at competitive terms.

Fransabank’s presence atLebanese main universities’ jobfairs is part of the Bank’s CSRstrategy for building prosperoustomorrows and assisting the younggeneration in achieving theirambitions.

Fransabank will always mark itspresence in upcoming job fairs at

different universities confirmingonce again the Group’s efforts inpromoting education and itsstrategy to build a diverse andknowledgeable workplace forthe future generations.

Fransabank Booth at USJ

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Al Bustan Festival-Art “Inspiration” to the Nation

Since 1994 Beit Meri’s Hotel Al-Bustanhas been the central venue for series ofone-off and short-run concerts,secular – symphony orchestras,recitals, operas – and sacred – masses,oratorios and the like.

“Inspiration” was the theme chosen forthe festival’s 22nd edition, which wasscheduled to run from Feb. 17 untilMarch 22.

Fransabank chose to be part of thisyear’s program and particularly onMarch 7th with Arabella Steinbacher,German-Japanese, who mixed geniuswith passion and shone on her violin.She played Mozart violin concertono 5, one of Mozart's most beautifulconcertos, and It was a beautifulevening which beautifully marked thenights of the festival.

Fransabank is proud to be for the 4th consecutive year a sponsor of Al Bustan Festivaland part of the aspirations and inspirations it offers to Lebanese music and artenthusiasts.

Arabella Steinbacher

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Fransabank Honors the Memory of Zaki Nassif in AUB Zaki Nassif Program for Music

In addition to promoting and supportingthe music program, the concerts alsoserve to highlight the mission of reviv-ing the Arabic classics and make itaccessible to broader audiences.

The repertoires are limited to thesongs of classic Arab performers. Theconcerts’ musical choices embrace the

entire Middle Eastern heritage, a genrethat is today struggling to hold its ownin the face of a wave of Arabic pop.

Fransabank is proud to honor and pro-mote the music of Zaki Nassif, one ofthe first generation of Lebanese com-posers and an icon in the Lebanon’smusical heritage.

Dedicating efforts to promote classical music and honor in particular the culturalheritage of Zaki Nassif, Fransabank supports AUB Zaki Nassif Program and sponsorsa one- year schedule of concerts introducing classics in Lebanese and Oriental musicat AUB's Department of Fine Arts and Arts History.

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Fransabank and USK: Theater, Identity and Survive

The 40th anniversary of the Faculty of Fine andApplied Arts was under the high patronage ofHis Excellency Mr. Raymond Arayji, Minister ofCulture.

For 2 consecutive days, sessions were held todiscuss key issues related to the theater withthe presence of Dr. Lena Saadeh Gibran - Headof the Theater and Performing Arts Departmentat the Faculty, Dr. Paul Zgheib - Dean of theFaculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Shadia ZeitounDoughan - President of the Professional ArtistsSyndicate, Mr. Raymond Arayji - Minister ofCulture, who all spoke about the importance oftheater as the observer which tests and storesin memory every social, political and ideologicalissue.

The two-day-conference was brought to a closewith a presentation of a play entitled “Déplacés”(Displaced), a collective creation directed byNaji Sorati and performed by the students of theProfessional Atelier for Scenic Arts, founded byDr. Lena Saadeh Gibran.

Demonstrating a strong belief in arts and particularly in theater, Fransabankcelebrated the World Theater Day and financially supported a symposium organizedby the Holy Spirit University of Kaslik - USEK on March 26 and 27, 2015, entitled“Theater, Identity and Survive”.

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Fransabank Supports“Form, Inform, Transform” the Public Sector

The launching ceremony of thisyear, took place in Pine Residencein Beirut and with the participationof 28 senior officials in theLebanese public administration,representing 15 departments andinstitutions as well as militaryorganizations.

On the occasion, Alan Bifani,Director General of the Ministry ofFinance, represented FinanceMinister Ali Hassan Khalil, and gavea speech in which he highlightedthe challenges faced by Lebanonand other countries in the region,along with the violent conflicts inthe area. He stressed on the needto look forward to a non-traditionalrole of the state, advocating for thetransition to new patterns ofgovernance which involve citizensin decision-making for the sake ofstate modernization and sustainabledevelopment.

The launch of the sixth session wasalso attended by FrenchAmbassador Patrice Paoli and Mr.Jerome Guyon, Head Desk for

Africa and Middle East in theNational School of Administration.

The french Institute thankedFransabank for their continuoussupport and praised the partnershipbetween Fransabank and theMinistry of Finance highlighting theBank’s role in such a leading bilateralcooperation in the field of publicadministration, and at the heart ofthe process of training leaders inthe Lebanese administration.

In her turn,Mrs. DaniaK a s s a r ,Head of

Marketing and CommunicationDepartment commented: “In linewith Fransabank’s corporate socialresponsibility, this initiative aims atcontributing to establish thecitizenship spirit, putting all ourefforts for the sake of strengtheningthe public institutions performanceto activate the LebaneseGovernment’s role. These meetingsand workshops seek to keep pacewith general managers and senior

staffs in the departments andpublic institutions, in order toexchange experiences, and to setthe basics of corporate governance,and improve overall performance.”Kassar added: “We, at Fransabank,strongly advocate that BasselFleihan Finance Institute tacklesprofoundly topics that serve themonetary and administrativereforms which are essential toalign and meet the public financepolicies and objectives.”

With similar initiatives, FransabankGroup always aspires as part of itsseveral CSR initiatives undertakenin many fields to “Form - Inform -Transform” the Public Sector inparticular and the communitieswhere it operates in general tosupport building more promisingtomorrows.

For its sixth consecutive year, Fransabank Grouppartnered with ENA - Ecole Nationale D’Administration,the French Embassy in Beirut, and Bassel Fleihan

Finance Institute which is an autonomous public institution operating underthe tutelage of the Lebanese Minister of Finance, for a joint educationprogram, to support Lebanon’s public sector key senior officials with keyleadership and managerial skills.

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Fransabank Supports “Roads for Life”

For five years now, Fransabank has accompanied Roads for Life in itsmission to raising awareness and empowering young people to be safeon roads, with the objective of saving lives and alleviating routeaccidents’ damages.

Optimizing the chances of survivalfor victims in the “Golden Hour ofTrauma” or the first 60 minutesfollowing the accident necessitatedimplementing specialized programnamely ATLS ( Advanced TraumaLife Support) a systematic,concise training for ER doctors for

the early care of trauma patients.

Fransabank has engaged insponsoring all doctors, fromprivate and public hospitalsspread on all Lebanese territorywho will take this course during2015. More than a hundreddoctors will be trained and receivecertificates in collaboration withAUBMC.

Fransabank believes that withcontributing in such socialresponsibility initiatives, resultscan be achieved to reinforce everycitizen’s right to life.

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Fransabank Contributes in The Silk Exhibition atMusée de la Soie - Bsous

The Museum evoked images of scentedspice routes, the famous ‘Silk Road’and the ancient exchanges of silkbetween the Land of the Cedar and theEast and the West. It was also a gentlereminder of the interaction betweenhumans, insects and plants and therewards that this brought to Lebanonfor hundreds of years.

Silk production in Lebanon goes backto the Middle Ages and in the 19th centuryit became the main activity for a largesection of the population, creatinggreat social and economic change inthe lives of the Lebanese.

Fransabank is keen to participate insuch significant museums; especiallythat The Silk Museum has become animportant reference of Lebanon’sculture, history, and ecology.

Having faith in Lebanon’s ecological, cultural and economic history, and withthe aim of attracting people to one of the most beautiful olive groves and gardens inLebanon, Fransabank was a major sponsor in The Silk Museum - Bsous - cazaof Aley.

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Fransabank Spreads Joy with Ahla Fawda

The event, which combined significanceand fun event, was attended bythousands of people and wasdeemed to be very successful by theexhibitors.

The aim of the event was to bringtogether people from all walks oflife to share in the joy of thecelebration of Beirut, old and new,and its history and culture and toallow exhibitors to showcase theirgoods made with love.

The aim was also the ongoingimplementation of Ahla Fawda’sBeirut Green Initiative for theimprovement of Hamra area andthe beautification of Hamra Streetby commissioning art work onbuildings. All of this leading to thegoal of improving the communitywe live and work in.

It was such a day of fun and celebrationof culture and legends that havebeen instrumental in the advancementof Lebanon’s cultural wealth andheritage. And the event was coveredby several media outlets andreceived tremendous acclaim fromall participants.

It’s worth noting that Ahla Fawdawas also behind the launching of thehuge and impressive mural InHamra depicting the face of legendSabah and which was executed byYazan Halwani.

Fransabank will continue to displayconstructive efforts in order tocontribute in improving theinfrastructure and urban planningof Hamra as well as of all Lebanonto make it more beautiful andeco-friendly.

With the aim of "Spreading Joy", along with the goal of turning Beirut Greenby creating a beautiful environment starting with Hamra Street, the heartbeatof the Capital, Fransabank generously sponsored the Second Ahla FawdaHamra Festival which took place on Sunday 31 May 2015 under the title“Tout Tout a Beirut”.

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Fransabank is a Key Sponsor in Lebanon’s Marathons

Demonstrating a strong commitment towards the community,Fransabank passionately sponsored this year 3 marathons: The InternalSecurity Forces Half Marathon, Tripoli Half Marathon, and BeirutMarathon Association’s Women’s race.

The Bank recognizes the potential contribution that sports can maketowards society on all levels and hence aims in these sponsorshipsat raising awareness about the importance of sports and its effecton people.

Fransabank believes that buildinga sports culture contributes inbringing up athletes to interna-tional standards. Therefore, thebank aimed in this sponsorshipat raising awareness about theimportance of sports and itseffect on our youth.

Tripoli Half InternationalMarathon was held on May 10th toraise awareness and help peoplefollow driving rules using sportsas a mean to get this messagethrough our youth. The theme forTripoli International HalfMarathon will be: “Running forPeace”.

The Internal Security Forces (ISF)organised on 19 April the eighth“Arab Police Championship” half-marathon race in Beirut city. Therace was planned under theauspices of the Minister of InteriorNouhad al-Mashnouq and thesupervision of the Arab PoliceSports Federation and theLebanese Athletics Federation.

During the half-marathon thatkicked off in front of the LebaneseNational Museum, around 1200runners part ic ipated. Theparticipants were drawn fromthe Arab police offices, theLebanese sport associations,clubs and federations, as well asteams the ISF, Lebanese Armed

Forces (LAF), General Security(GS), State Security, Beirut FireDepartment and UNIFIL.

Racers were thrilled to be part ofthe half-marathon, and some didnot find it so hard. However, “thethree to four last kilometres werea little hard because we wereclimbing upward and for me it wasa little hard,” a runner said.

At the end of the race, a distributionceremony for trophies and shieldswas held in the "museum" area tothe winners by Major GeneralBasbous and General Attiyah, alsoa number of personalities whowere at the ceremony participatedin the distribution of the awards.

Fransabank Runs the ISF Half-Marathon

Fransabank Runsfor Peacein Tripoli Half-Marathon

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Fransabank Encourages Women and Childrento “Rise and Run forward”

Fransabank’s contribution in thismarathon aimed firstly at engagingchildren and teenagers to run forwardalongside women and mothers, andempowering them to fulfill all their rolesin society. The Bank was represented bytwo teams of children and teenagers inthis race, a team of Himaya in anattempt to raise awareness on childabuse in Lebanon, and another team ofSOS Village d’enfants composed mainlyof army martyr children.

The Marathon, which was launchedthree years ago, was a chance forwomen from all walks of life, all ages,and all backgrounds to rally in a racethat was designed specifically forthem. On that day, Women who are alsoPeace Runners, brought all of theirpositive energy forward and rantowards a promising future.

The “Rise and Run Forward” eventincluded 6 races: The 10KM race and10km relay for women; however, familieswere also invited to run together in the5KM Fun Run and in the 1KM Run withParent. Husbands, fathers, brothers,sons and friends can all participate inthis healthy and empowering activity.Special needs 10 KM (women only) and5KM races were also organized fordifferent categories.

Fransabank is proud to advocate for allhumanitarian causes regarding womenand children and contribute to raisequite a bit of awareness through thisrace. On Sunday June 7th women andchildren did “Rise and Run Forward”with the Beirut Marathon Association:Forward towards a healthier life and abright future where everything ispossible.

Demonstrating a strong commitment towards the community and in particulartowards women and children, Fransabank passionately sponsored the third versionof the Beirut Marathon Association’s Women’s race, “Rise and Run Forward”, whichtook place on June 7, 2015 in the historic and scenic seaport city of Byblos (Jbeil).

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Fransabank is Present in Taya Run,in the Loving Memory of Melanie Freiha

On May 4, 2015, Fransabank was proud to sponsor a Rugby Tournamentheld at Notre Dame de Jamhour and prepared jointly with AUB to honorthe memory of Mélanie Freiha who passed away this winter.

Mélanie Freiha Rugby Tournament2015 started at 10AM and continuedtill late at night on a fun day of rugbytournament followed by live concertwith renowned bands.

In the tournament which was heldin honor of Melanie Freiha - an exJamhour student as well as rugbyplayer - commemorative cups andmedals were handed over toparticipants by Melanie’s parents.

The concert which took placeimmediately after was set in thegrounds of Jamhour to top off agreat event celebrating life, youthand family spirit.

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Fransabank Restores Hope and “Walks”with Al Younbouh

In line with its evolving corporate citizen role that caters to people withspecial needs, Fransabank reaffirmed its commitment and belief in thenecessity of supporting various humanitarian and social initiatives thatwork on improving the standard of living of the community. As such,Fransabank offered this year again its contributions to the humanitarianNGO “Walk with Al Younbouh.”

An awareness raising event thatwas held on May 10th 2015 andFransabank was present in supportof Al Younbouh Center’s mission toimprove the quality of life of itsstudents and ensure their dignifiedintegration into the community.

The “Walk” offered all participantsthe chance to meet and interactwith the students.

Fransabank’s donation to “Walkwith Al Younbouh” comes from itscare for less privileged people withspecial needs.

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Fransabank Grants Financial Support in Fulfillment of OpenMinds’ Fund

OpenMinds is a fund established inLebanon in 2013 by concernedparents, to enable the AUB MedicalCenter’s Special Kids Clinic (ASKC)accomplish its objectives related toconduct research, empower thecommunity through education andawareness, and aid needy families.

It has successfully initiated itsprogram of institutional fundraising,and is focused in parallel onorganizing activities to provideearly detection, expert diagnosis,

and coordinated total care fordevelopmentally and neurologicallyimpaired children in an affordablemanner.

Fransabank Group’s donation toOpenMinds reflects the Group’scontribution in increasing communityawareness, expanding access toclinical services for eligible familiesto empower them and propel theirchildren to a more promisingfuture.

Few challenges in life can be as difficult as having a child with specialneeds. Yet with proper diagnosis, education, and follow up, many childrencan have their potential unleashed and grow to become functioning mem-bers of our society, contributing to the productivity, general well-being, andhealth diversity of our community.

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Our People, Our Assets

Fransabank’s Annual Gathering Ceremony 2015

The Gala dinner opened with a videowhich was played to share with thestaff the historical journey of bothChairmen to China under the titleSilk Road to Success, and whichembodied their pioneering effortsto open the doors for strategic andeconomic cooperation and sizeablemutual benefits between China andthe Arab World.

In such a celebratory event, andafter the documentary, HE MrAdnan Kassar welcomed theemployees and opened with amessage of hope and optimism in

the year 2015, assuring everyonethat it is going to be a promisingyear for Fransabank and it willmark and reaffirm its position asthe oldest and largest Bank inLebanon.

Chairman Kassar explained howthe Bank took the strategic decisionto be the strategic partner ofChinese entrepreneurs working inthe region as well as to Lebanesebusinessmen working with China,highlighting the growing economicrole of Chine in the Region as wellas in the World.

With a joyful spirit, and within the framework of its annual tradition,Fransabank held its gathering ceremony, at Hilton Habtoor Grand Hotel –Beirut. The celebration was attended by HE Mr. Adnan Kassar, and ViceChairman Mr Adel Kassar, along with members of the board of directors,general management and around 1400 of Fransabank’s family members.

Cynthia Brown, Music Saga

Fransabank’s Marketing Team

President Adnan Kassar giving his speech

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After that, Kassar mentioned theGroup’s seventh acquisition andmerger operation of AhliInternational Bank SAL, statingthat this acquisition consolidatedthe Group’s ranking as the largestbranch network in Lebanon, with124 branches strategically spreadall over the country.

Kassar moved on to highlight theentrepreneurial beginnings, andcited the challenges Fransabankhas gone through the years -from strength to strength, drivenby the spirit of ambition, entrepre-neurship and innovation which arealways at the core of its business. Addressing the bank’s outstandingstaff, Kassar said: “We are allproud to be part of Fransabankwhich is a Lebanese bank withstrong roots in Lebanon for ninedecades,” reassuring the Bank’swholly commitment to Lebanon asour source of inspiration.

In an optimistic note about thefuture, Kassar urged the employeesto look forward to continuing toserve the loyal customers over thenext years and beyond. Moreover,he conveyed a message of trust inFransabank’s staff “who willcontinue to rise to all thechallenges with the necessaryskil ls, determination andcommitment that they haveshown to date and for which heexpressed his pride and gratitude.”

Before leaving the floor, hewished attendees and Fransabank

Group more success and prosperity,urging them to be always loyal toLebanon and to FransabankGroup which in turn stayed loyal tothe community it serves through-out the years.

The ceremony included entertainingsketches of Mafi Metlo Show, andspecial performances of a groupof singers that added a specialsparkle to the evening.

President Adnan Kassar with Mrs. Raida Kassar, Mr. Nadim Kassar and Mrs. Dania Kassar

Ma Fi Metlo ShowMr. Nadim Kassar with Raida and Tamara

Messrs. Adnan and Adel Kassar with the Master of Ceremony, Mohamad Kais

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Our People, Our Assets

Fransabank Family - Dinner in La Boite

Gatherings among Fransabank family, which aside from enriching a senseof belonging to the Bank, have always had a positive impact to make all ofthe staffs engaged and go beyond at work. For this purpose, Fransabank isalways committed to its own “human-centered” philosophy and is keen tocreate cheerful and casual occasions which gather all Fransabank’s peopleoutside the working context.

One of these outings was a dinnerwhich took place in a new clublocated in Beirut-Downtown, LaBoite, where Fransabank peopleenjoyed mouthwatering disheswhile listening to live bandperformance and live hits featuringDj.

Offering such stimulating activitiesand creating socializing eventswould always improve a sense ofbelonging and engagement andwould always make the bonds gofar beyond the typical "co-worker"relationships found at most othercompanies.

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Lebanon • France • Algeria • Syria • Belarus • Cyprus • Sudan • Libya • UAE • Iraq

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