Wazni, ABL Agree on Opening Some Branches of Banks

Finance Minister Ghazi Wazni and the Association of Banks on Tuesday agreed to keep some branches of banks open throughout Lebanon’s lockdown over the coronavirus crisis, following a series of statements and counter-statements.

A statement issued by the Finance Ministry said the branches would open as of Wednesday and that an agreement was reached on “organizing work shifts and carrying out the necessary measures to facilitate banking services in order to cater to the needs of the people during these difficult and critical circumstances.”

“Each bank will announce a list of the branches involved with the decision, in addition to the continuation of the Call Center services and securing cash via ATMs,” the statement said.

“ABL has stressed its commitment to the Cabinet decision on general mobilization in addition to preserving the health of clients and employees,” it added.

Banks will also abide by the decision on preventing crowding while providing essential banking services, the statement said.