Debate: Situation in Lebanon
Date: TUESDAY, 13 JUNE 2023
Speaker: Janez Lenarčič
Language: EN

On investigation into the Beirut port explosion: we believe that the investigation that has been initiated by the authorities in Lebanon should be impartial, should be credible, should be transparent, as well as independent. And yes, we are aware of the political stumbling blocks that are delaying this investigation, and we have repeatedly called for a swift resolution. We continue to do so, including at the Human Rights Council session.  On corruption in Lebanon: yes, this is a serious issue, as pointed out by many of you, and, as was stated in the December 2020 Council conclusions, our cooperation policy with Lebanon is already contingent on the implementation of the necessary reforms, including in the area of fighting corruption. Any additional EU cooperation, such as, for instance, macro-financial assistance, depends on prior conclusion of the IMF agreement. Some of our cooperation continues, of course, but that cooperation is people-centred. It focuses on social sectors like health or education, and it targets the most vulnerable parts of population. As such, of course, it cannot be curtailed or conditioned further. Moreover, this existing and ongoing cooperation is channelled outside administrative structures, mainly through the UN agencies, World Bank and international and local non-governmental organisations. And, of course, we closely monitor the use of these funds.  On Syrian refugees and their possible return: we – I repeat – fully recognise Lebanon’s efforts as a host country. We have been providing sustained cooperation to mitigate this burden. We are mobilising again the international community this year, on the day after tomorrow at the seventh Brussels conference on international assistance to Syrian refugees and host communities. I repeat – our support benefits not just Syrian refugees but also host communities in Lebanon.  Of course, the EU agrees that ultimately refugees should go back to their country whenever conditions allow for their safe and voluntary return. This should be done according to the UNHCR criteria and on a repeat voluntary basis.  However, and this is very important point that I want to make again, the presence of refugees should not be blamed for all the economic woes Lebanon is suffering. The current Lebanese crisis stems mainly from self-inflicted economic and financial mismanagement.  On possible targeted individual sanctions: the existing EU framework of restrictive measures on Lebanon allows for this possibility. And as I stated in my introduction, the situation will be reviewed shortly before the end of July within the EU Council in the light of the latest developments. I repeat that all options are on the table, especially in case of further deterioration of the situation.  As for the case of the specific case of the Governor of Central Bank of Lebanon, Mr Salameh, I wish to note that international arrest warrants have already been issued by two Member States of the European Union.  To conclude, let me emphasise once again that the European Union will continue to follow the crisis in Lebanon very closely. All instruments at our disposal are being considered but we need Lebanese leaders to do their share, and to do it urgently. More than ever, it is time for the Lebanese leadership to deliver for the sake of their own population.