EU to provide financial assistance to Lebanon for refugee support

Brussels: The European Union has pledged to provide €15 million (approximately $16.4 million) to support vulnerable communities in Lebanon, including Lebanese citizens and displaced Syrians, the Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants announced.

This humanitarian aid package, confirmed by the European Commission, designates €3.5 million for vulnerable Lebanese and €11.5 million for internally displaced Syrians and those seeking asylum in Lebanon.

The funds are set to enhance the provision of essential services such as food, water, sanitation, and hygiene support for those in dire need. The Lebanese Foreign Ministry, in a statement released by Lebanon’s National News Agency, expressed gratitude to the EU for its commitment to alleviating the hardships faced by the most vulnerable populations in Lebanon.

The ministry also highlighted the urgency of developing sustainable solutions for the safe return of Syrian refugees to their homeland. Lebanon, which hosts the highest number of refugees per capita globally, currently accommodates an estimated 1.5 million Syrian refugees.

The country, grappling with its own economic crisis, has been actively engaging in discussions with relevant nations to facilitate the return of these refugees.