Tripoli Port Service Infrastructure Strengthened with TİKA’s Support

The opening ceremony for the Tripoli Port Service Infrastructure Development Project, implemented by Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA), was held in Lebanon.

The project, aimed at enhancing the infrastructure of Tripoli Port—one of northern Lebanon’s key trade hubs and a vital point for commercial ties with Türkiye—was inaugurated with the participation of Sheikh Muhammed Imam, Mufti of Tripoli and North Lebanon; Ahmed Tamer, General Director of Lebanese Land and Maritime Transport; Sermet Sidavi, Chief Prosecutor of North Lebanon; and Halid al-Hayr, Dean of the Faculty of Law at Lebanese University Tripoli.

As part of the project, several infrastructure enhancements were made to improve the experience for passengers and drivers who had previously faced long waiting times at Tripoli Port. These improvements included the renovation of the passenger waiting room, the construction of a mosque, and the creation of a rest area for drivers.

“Tripoli holds a special place in our hearts”

Ambassador Ömer Engin Lütem emphasized the important role Tripoli Port plays in trade with Türkiye and noted that the city continues to hold significant weight in the economy due to its rich culture and historical depth.

He shared that after recently presenting his letter of credence to Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, he felt compelled to visit Tripoli. “After presenting my letter of credence to President Aoun, I wanted to come to Tripoli. I knew it was a city that holds a very special place in our hearts,” Lütem stated.

Expressing his appreciation for the warm welcome he received, Lütem said, “I was welcomed like a family member in Tripoli. In line with Türkiye’s principled foreign policy, TİKA continues its projects here.”

“This connection between Türkiye and Tripoli has expanded”

Tamer, the General Manager of Lebanon’s Land and Maritime Transport, highlighted the significance of Tripoli Port for Türkiye in terms of trade and transportation. Drawing attention to the long-standing and close relations between Tripoli and Türkiye, Tamer stated, “With this project, the connection between Türkiye and Tripoli has expanded.” He further explained, “Trucks from Türkiye use Tripoli Port extensively. Trucks from Azerbaijan and Iran also pass through Türkiye to reach here.”

Tamer also emphasized the strong relationship and cooperation between Tripoli Port and Mersin’s Taşucu Port, saying “We have a significant partnership with Taşucu Port. We have always collaborated, especially during times of crisis.”

The Mersin Taşucu-Tripoli route: A key link in the Türkiye-Middle East supply network

The Mersin Taşucu-Tripoli route serves as a crucial logistical backbone for trade between Türkiye and Lebanon with over 100 drivers arriving at the Port of Tripoli each week via Ro-Ro ships from Türkiye. Thanks to the recent improvements, passengers and drivers waiting at the port will now be able to enjoy more comfortable conditions and travel on the Mersin-Tripoli route will be much more convenient.