From (R) Elie Sioufi, Lebanese Consul General Ziad Atallah, Mary Abu Fadel and Samir Ataya. — Courtesy photo





Samar Yahya

Saudi Gazette



JEDDAH — Lebanese Consul General Ziad Atallah and his wife Zina  hosted a reception here this week to honor three Lebanese nationals who received the Medal of Honor from the French president.



The three are Mary Abu Fadel, chairman of the board of directors at the French School in Jeddah who received the medal for working voluntarily for over 20 years; Samir Ataya; and Elie Sioufi, general manager in one of the major food distribution companies in the Kingdom.



“We are here today to congratulate  Sioufi and Ataya for receiving medals from the French president and Mrs. Abu Fadel on receiving recognition for all her academic efforts,” Atallah said, addressing guests.



“The award to Eng. Ataya came for his long and lasting efforts with the French people. Mr. Sioufi helped to introduce French products in the Saudi market. Mrs. Abu Fadel devoted her time and efforts during the past 25 years in working voluntarily at the French school,” Atallah continued.



On behalf of the consulate in Jeddah and the Lebanese community, Atallah presented trophies to the three honored personalities. The ceremony hosted consul generals of many Arab countries in Jeddah in addition to the French Consul General Dr. Louis Blin, who congratulated the honored personalities.