Ali El Abdallah Mourns Adnan Al Kassar: A Historic National Figure Beyond Compare

Ali El Abdallah Mourns Adnan Al Kassar:
A Historic National Figure Beyond Compare

The late Adnan Al Kassar was the founder of Arab-Chinese relations 70 years ago.

Beirut, May 3, 2025 – Today, Lebanon bids farewell to Adnan Al Kassar, one of the most prominent figures in business, economics, and politics in the country’s modern history. With deep sorrow and sadness, the Lebanese-Chinese Business Association and Amaco Group mourn the passing of the great man who left behind a monumental legacy of achievements that marked pivotal milestones in Lebanon’s modern journey.
 

Ali Mahmoud El Abdallah, President of the Lebanese-Chinese Business Association and Chairman of Amaco Group, said:
"Today, we lost a brother, a friend, and a pioneer in business, politics, and economics. This is an irreplaceable loss for our nation and for both the Lebanese and Arab economies. With his passing, a life full of bold contributions comes to an end, the life of a courageous, pioneering man who built a network of international relationships grounded in trust and innovation, extending from the Far East in China to the farthest reaches of the West. The dean of Lebanon’s economy has departed, a man who charted a path between East and West, illuminating the way for businesspeople in Lebanon and the region."
 

El Abdallah added:
"This is a profound loss. Al Kassar was a pillar of the Lebanese economy, opening markets around the world with his vision and boldness. He earned the trust of governments and companies everywhere and was without a doubt, a remarkable ambassador for our country and the Arab world in every international forum. President Adnan Al Kassar was not just a supporter of the private sector, he was a foundational bridge-builder between Lebanon and China. This path of cooperation is one we have followed together since the founding of the Lebanese-Chinese Business Association in 2015. He believed in us and in the mission, we set for ourselves. He was the spiritual father of the Association, hosting its launch event at the headquarters of the General Union of Arab Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture, in the Adnan Al Kassar Building for Arab Economy. He offered his expertise and networks to support this major initiative, and we always worked under his guidance, inspired by the depth of his experience. He believed in Lebanon’s ability to be a bridge between East and West, and his sharp vision was our driving force amid all the challenges we faced. I still remember what former Chinese Ambassador to Lebanon Mr. Jiang Jiang said at our launch event:

"There is a Chinese proverb: ‘When you drink water, do not forget the one who dug the well.’ I refer to President Adnan Al Kassar, who has worked since long ago to enhance relations between Lebanon and China. He helped secure the trade and economic agreement between the two countries many decades ago."
 

El Abdallah continued:
"Seventy years ago, Al Kassar recognized China as a rising global power, precisely at a time when it was under indirect political, economic, and military siege following the proclamation of the People’s Republic of China in 1949. The late visionary laid the foundation for Arab-Chinese and Lebanese-Chinese economic relations. He was the architect of the first trade cooperation agreement between Lebanon and China in 1955, at a time when the two countries had no diplomatic relations. He also exerted considerable effort in lobbying the Lebanese government to recognize the People's Republic of China as the unified China. Later, in 1988, he played a key role in establishing the Arab-Chinese Chamber of Commerce."
 

El Abdallah added:
"We will never forget this exceptional man, this historic national figure who comes once in a lifetime. We will not forget his humanity and his passion for building, progress, development, and innovation. He left us a legacy of partnerships and projects that will remain a testament to a man who gave so much to his country. We are proud to carry his memory and even prouder to have walked alongside him, following his path to strengthen the partnership with China. We will continue this journey with the same determination."
 

El Abdallah concluded:
"On behalf of the Lebanese-Chinese Business Association, the Amaco Group family, and myself, I extend heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Adnan Al Kassar and to all Lebanese.
May God have mercy on him and grant him eternal peace."