EU Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarčič during a meeting with Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri. (Credit: NNA)
BEIRUT — European Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarčič stressed urged Lebanon Friday to address its multiple crises and reach a bailout agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), adding humanitarian aid from the EU is only a "lifeline."
On Thursday, the European Commission announced €60 million in humanitarian aid for the most vulnerable people in Lebanon, as the country continues to suffer a multi-year economic downward spiral.
Lenarčič announced the aid would target Syrian refugees and Lebanese citizens in need.
"Humanitarian aid can only be a lifeline. It is essential to start addressing the roots of the multiple crises in Lebanon," the EU official stressed in a series of tweets at the end of a two-day official visit to Lebanon.
"Comprehensive governance and an agreement with the IMF are prerequisites to pave the way for much-needed reforms for a better future for the Lebanese," Lenarčič said.
The Lebanese Parliament has yet to implement the reforms necessary to unlock a $3 billion aid package from the International Monetary Fund.
"It is clear that the political, financial and economic crises have had dramatic consequences, first and foremost for the Lebanese people, while the country is already in a unique position in the world by hosting the largest number of refugees per capita," Lenarčič continued. He added that "the EU will continue to support the Lebanese people in these difficult times."
During his two-day visit to Beirut, Lenarčič met with Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, as well as the caretaker Minister of Social Affairs Hector Hajjar.