Mr Jacques Saadé honored by the Association of the Mediterranean Chambers of Commerce and Industry (ASCAME)

Since its creation 30 years ago, ASCAME has worked with more than 300 Chambers of Commerce, international institutions and organizations from 23 countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea – including France, Spain, Egypt, Syria and Lebanon - to promote social and econonmic development in the Mediterranean area. This year, during the 8th Mediterranean Week of Economic Leaders, ASCAME recognized the CMA CGM Group’s role in the development of the Mediterranean Basin. .

Since the launching of its first CMA service between Marseilles, Alexandria, Latakia and Beirut by Mr Jacques R. Saadé in 1978, the Group has been a key actor in the Mediterranean area. For the past 36 years, the Group has developed more than 50 services, calling 68 ports in 24 countries. About 30% of its vessels – representing 50% of the total capacity – transit by the Mediterranean Sea or call its ports, contributing to the growth and development of the Mediterranean Basin.

Jacques Saadé, CMA CGM Group Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said: "Because of its history, our Group has strong ties to the Mediterranean which is at the heart of its strategy. CMA CGM never ceased to call this area, since the first service in 1978 between Marseilles-Alexandria-Beirut-Latakia. This service joining France to Lebanon via Syria and Egypt was a symbol at the time, and is even more of a symbol now . For 36 years, this service has evolved, without interruption, and the fact that it still exists is a real signof hope for this region. I am convinced that economic growth is a strong factor of stability. This is the reason why CMA CGM will keep on playing its part in the development of the Mediterranean from France to Morocco, Turkey, Syria, Egypt, Lebanon…"