The Minister heard how the coronavirus pandemic and
economic crisis is impacting the livelihoods of the
Lebanese people, and how UK aid is supporting the most
vulnerable.
The visit was an opportunity to see first-hand how the
UK’s longstanding partnership with Lebanon is
implemented through the education, security,
humanitarian sectors, and creating economic
opportunities that totalled over $200 million in 2019.
Minister Cleverly highlighted the UK’s leading role in
finding a coronavirus vaccine, following the Global
Vaccine Summit in June, raising $8.8 billion to support
the global fight against the virus. The UK’s response
also saw over $2 million provided to help tackle
coronavirus in Lebanon.
Speaking about the visit, Minister Cleverly said:
I was deeply impressed by the passion and drive of
the Lebanese people I met. I am confident that this
country can have a bright future, but it must take
urgent and drastic action now to avoid economic
catastrophe.
The UK is helping to tackle coronavirus in the
country, which in turn will help stop future waves of
the disease. This pandemic has already caused the
death of so many around the world, but together we
can stop it. No one is safe until we are all safe.
During his day-long virtual visit, Minister Cleverly
met Prime Minister Hassan Diab and Foreign Minister
Hitti to underline the seriousness of the economic
situation and the consequences if no progress is made.
Minister Cleverly also highlighted the importance of
Lebanon’s disassociation policy.
At a briefing on the UK border security project – which
is helping to keep Lebanese borders safe – he heard
from Lebanese Army officers how UK support is playing a
key role in bolstering regional security.
With partners from various UK-initiated programmes,
Minister Cleverly heard about the humanitarian and
education-related challenges across Lebanon and how UK
Aid is supporting vulnerable and host communities.
Joined by British Council’s Young Mediterranean Voices’
from various regions, Minister Cleverly participated in
a lively debate on education and future opportunities
for young Lebanese people. In a roundtable discussion
with independent experts, he heard about the challenges
facing Lebanon’s economy and the road to recovery. The
session included videos from beneficiaries and partners
who shared their personal stories on how the economic
crisis is affecting them.
