Statement by President von der Leyen with President Costa in Lebanon

Good afternoon,

It's very good to be back in Beirut - a historic city with inspiring generosity and creativity. Europe and Lebanon share deep Mediterranean roots and a long tradition of exchange, dialogue and cooperation. We share a common goal - stability, security, and prosperity of our people. Today, our partnership is strong. And we are ready to develop it even further. Our action is focusing on three key strands.

First, our relations as neighbours. During my visit of May 2024, I announced a EUR 1 billion support package. Our support enables us to accompany you in the reforms you are bringing forward. We welcome key steps you have taken in judicial and economic reforms. The reform of the banking system will certainly be key to stabilise the economy and attract more investments to Lebanon. This can also pave the way for an agreement with the IMF, and further support from the European Union.

Second, security and defence. We all agree that security and defence are crucial. This is why we are providing important support to the Lebanese Armed Forces and to the Internal Security Forces and the General Security. And we are ready to step up our cooperation even further.

We also agree that it is crucial that the ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel is fully respected by all parties. Lebanon's sovereignty and territorial integrity has to be upheld. And it is paramount to ensure that Hezbollah is fully disarmed. I therefore very much welcome your announcement yesterday of the completion of the first phase of the disarmament plan south of the Litani River, and I also welcome Lebanon's efforts to engage in dialogue with Israel.

Third, we are working to build the conditions for safe, voluntary and sustainable returns of Syrians. For this, stability and economic recovery inside Syria remain of the essence. This was the message at the core of our visit in Damascus earlier today. Lebanon has shown remarkable solidarity by hosting one of the largest Syrian refugee populations in the world. And you can count on us. While we will continue to support refugees and host communities in Lebanon, we are also supporting the returns and reintegration of Syrians, in Syria, for which we just signed an EUR 80 million programme.

We look forward to continuing working together with Lebanon. Thank you