How would you define the problem from your perspective? An own goal The taxi arrived at the impressive mansion in Faqra and I made my way through the blistering sun towards the entrance. I was met by two servants and directed to Mr. Haider’s room. He had faxed me a contract, the terms of which were ridiculously low, and I was determined to get a better deal for my client.

A peek at my watch revealed it was 11.30. I’d arrived just in time, despite the flight delays at Frankfurt and the queues at Beirut airport. In front of Haider’s door I cleared my throat, tightened my tie, gathered all my courage and entered the room. ‘Mr. Haider, I am delighted to meet you’, I said, rather too exuberantly.

‘Ahlan Wilhelm, welcome my friend,’ said Haider. ‘I just have to say goodbye to my important visitors. Please make yourself at home while you’re waiting.’

A servant led me to a large room where there were two men and, in the far corner, a beautiful oriental woman. I sat down in a chair and waited for Mr. Haider. An elaborate clock chimed twelve, but there was still no sign of him. By now the other three were thoroughly enjoying their lunch, which I had refused out of politeness. To keep my nerves steady I had only accepted a glass of arak. By 12.15 my patience had started to desert me. I was going to be too late for my next meeting. How could I trust Mr. Haider if he had already broken his promise beforehand?

Eventually, at 12.30, Mr. Haider entered the room. He looked extremely relaxed in his traditional dress and I jumped up to greet him. Before approaching me he first kissed both men and had a brief conversation with the woman. I had prepared myself well for this moment. I gave him a firm handshake and seated myself.

‘Ahlan Wilhelm, welcome to Lebanon,’ he said. Looking at the table, he added: ‘I hope you enjoyed your delicious lunch with my beloved sons, Alain and Elie, and of course with my habibi, Charlotte.’