CNN Market Place Middle East

SHOW #146

IN FOCUS: LEBANON TOURISM BOOM

Banking, real estate and tourism are the key pillars of Lebanon's growth. The current stability is bringing in millions of tourists each year. In 2009, despite the global downturn, tourist numbers to Lebanon skyrocketed by 39%. That was the strongest rise for any country in the world. As the all-important summer season gains headway, MME looks at how tourism fuels overall growth.

FACETIME: RAYA HASSAN, LEBANESE FINANCE MINISTER

The economy is enjoying a peace dividend of sorts. But despite strong growth, Lebanon still faces a number of challenges. It's budget deficit remains in the double digits, and the country's long term debt is nearly 150 percent of GDP -- one of the world's highest. MME talks to Lebanon's Minister of Finance Raya Hassan, to find out if the levels of strong growth can be sustained.