EU chief pledges $1bn aid to bolster Lebanon’s economy

EU chief Ursula von der Leyen announced a substantial $1 billion aid package for Lebanon during her visit to the country, aimed at boosting its socio-economic stability amid a severe economic crisis. This financial aid, available through 2027, primarily focuses on enhancing education, health services, and support for Syrian refugees and other vulnerable groups within Lebanon.

The package allocates 736 million euros to aid Syrian refugees and others needing assistance, with an additional 200 million euros dedicated to enhancing Lebanese security services for better border and migration control. It also includes support for local fishermen to prevent them from engaging with smugglers.

Von der Leyen emphasized the need for Lebanon to implement reforms to create a positive economic environment for its businesses and citizens. She discussed strategies for voluntary return of refugees to Syria, working closely with the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) and other international partners to support humanitarian efforts in Syria.

Highlighting the EU’s commitment to maintaining legal migration pathways and resettling refugees, von der Leyen also stressed the importance of cooperation with Lebanon to combat illegal migration and migrant smuggling.

Lebanon’s economic collapse in late 2019 has made it a hub for migrants, including Lebanese citizens, Syrians, and Palestinians, attempting dangerous journeys to Europe. Beirut reports hosting around two million people from Syria, with the majority relying on aid, underscoring the profound impact of the regional crisis on Lebanon.

Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides, who joined von der Leyen, underscored the urgency of the situation given Cyprus’ proximity to Lebanon and Syria. He called on European officials to recognize parts of Syria as safe for returns and praised the EU’s efforts to assist Lebanon in handling its challenges, including securing borders and managing migration.

Lebanon’s caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati welcomed the aid, emphasizing the interconnected security concerns between Lebanon and Europe. He advocated for support to help displaced persons remain in their countries to avoid Lebanon becoming a transit hub for migrants heading to Europe.

This announcement was part of von der Leyen’s broader regional engagement aimed at addressing the complex issues of migration, security, and economic stability in the wake of ongoing conflicts and the substantial refugee presence in Lebanon.