Lebanese-born Hosam Abu Meri becomes one of Latvia's first ministers of Middle Eastern background

The new government, voted by Latvia's parliament on Friday, confirmed Evika Silina as the prime minister following the resignation of Krisjanis Karins.

Hosam Abu Meri is a medical doctor specializing in gastroenterology and has been active in politics for more than ten years.

This appointment makes Hosam Abu Meri join the multi-talented Lebanese diaspora, which has made significant contributions to the field of medicine around the world. 

Lebanese healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, researchers, and other medical practitioners, had, for years, played a vital role in advancing medical science, providing healthcare services, and contributing to medical education globally.