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During her visit to Beirut today, European Commission President Ursulavon der Leyen, accompanied by the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, discussed the significant domestic and regional challenges faced by Lebanon, and how best the EU could support the country and its people.

She announced that the EU will provide afinancial assistance package for Lebanon worth 1 billion for 2024 to 2027.

This continued EU support will strengthen basic services such as education, social protection and health for the people in Lebanon. It will accompany urgent economic, financial and banking reforms. Furthermore, support will be provided to the Lebanese Armed Forces and other security forces with equipment and training for border management and to fight against smuggling.

Presidentvon der Leyensaid: My visit today is a strong testimony of the EU's continued support to Lebanon and its people. This was also the clear message of European leaders at our last summit, and are committed to provide strong financial support to the country in view of the significant challenges it faces. The 1 billion until 2027 will provide much needed assistance to the people in Lebanon and contribute to its security and stability.

Background

The visit of President von der Leyen to Lebanon follows the special meeting of the European Council on 17-18 April, where the Council confirmed the EU's determination to support the most vulnerable people in Lebanon, including refugees, internally displaced persons and host communities, as well as strengthening support to Lebanese Armed Forces, combating human trafficking and smuggling. The European Council also reaffirmed the need to achieve conditions for safe, voluntary, and dignified returns of Syrian refugees, as defined by UNHCR.

The EU's support will focus on:

Since 2011, the EU support to Lebanon amounts to more than 3 billion, including 2.6 billion to support Syrian refugees as well as host communities in Lebanon.

For more information

European Council Conclusionsof 17-18 April 2024

Factsheet_EU-Lebanon cooperation

EU-Lebanon cooperation

My visit today is a strong testimony of the EUs continued support to Lebanon and its people. This was also the clear message of European leaders at our last summit, and are committed to provide strong financial support to the country in view of the significant challenges it faces. The 1 billion until 2027 will provide much needed assistance to the people in Lebanon and contribute to its security and stability.

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission

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President von der Leyen reaffirms EU's strong support for Lebanon and its people and announces a 1 billion package ... - European Union