An exhibition of traditional Lebanese food and handicraft was held at UNIFIL Headquarters in Naquora on Thursday, 18 October 2012 as part of celebrations to commemorate UN Day (24 October) and to mark the International Rural Women's Day (15 October).

Nineteen local cooperatives exhibited diverse, authentic and traditional products from different parts of southern Lebanon.

The exhibition is part of efforts to assist local agricultural cooperatives and associations to promote their products as well as introduce Lebanese culture to UNIFIL members and to provide an opportunity for local entrepreneurs to showcase and promote handmade Lebanese products, while establishing new relations with other local cooperatives.

Local authorities, members of the international community, civilian staff and military members of UNIFIL visited the exhibition, savoured homemade delicacies and purchased local traditional products and handmade gifts.

UNIFIL Force Commander Major-General Paolo Serra, visiting the exhibition, said: "This is a good tradition that enhances our relationship and interaction with the local community. It is important for UNIFIL to continue organising such events in the future."

UNIFIL has organized food and handicraft exhibitions since 2009 with the aim of providing income opportunities, promoting exchange of experiences and best practices between participating cooperatives, which contributed to the empowerment of women entrepreneurs in the south of Lebanon and the creation of informal networks for cooperation.