The British Embassy distributed a farewell message from Ambassador Ian Collard on the occasion of the end of his mission in Lebanon, before his return to the United Kingdom, titled "Striving for a Future That Lebanon Deserves." It stated: "After a year filled with events during which I held the position of Ambassador of the United Kingdom in Lebanon, I leave this week your beautiful and unique country to return to my homeland. I am saddened to depart, as I have greatly enjoyed my Lebanese experiences: exploring the stunning landscapes, delving into your ancient history, tasting your delicious food, and most importantly, meeting many of you on my travels from the north to the south, through the mountains and the Bekaa. I thank you for welcoming me with open arms and for sharing your culture, advice, and wisdom with me.
Lebanon may be small, but it is complete in various ways. It possesses many of the essential elements for success, particularly its strong foundation in its rich and deep history, complemented by modern vitality, entrepreneurship, and undeniable human capacity.
However, the jewel of the Eastern Mediterranean is not living up to its potential. Many of you are suffering under the continued failure of Lebanon's powerful figures to serve your interests—the interests of the Lebanese people.
If the components are present, the recipe for a brighter future is also clear and within reach. It is evident that the collapsed Lebanese economy is in urgent need of support through an agreement with the International Monetary Fund. In my meetings with politicians and bankers, it seems that most of them do not want to accept that Lebanon must do all that is necessary to receive an international rescue package. There can be no exceptions for Lebanon anymore.
Lebanon must adopt the necessary laws, open the books without preconditions, and reset the banking sector. The alternative is that more and more of you will have to take increasingly desperate measures to survive.
Reform, today, is the key to solving Lebanon's economic problems; now is not the time for politics. The decisions your leaders make have never been more important, no matter how difficult that may be. They owe you better governance, transparency, and accountability. They must show empathy and commitment to improving the lives of their citizens in the country. The public interest must prevail over personal interest. The United Kingdom's priorities remain clear. The British government is committed to supporting Lebanon's stability and security. We have deepened and expanded our partnerships with the Lebanese Army and Internal Security Forces. Our support for the education sector has helped build a better future for the youth of Lebanon, those who will be the next generation of Lebanese leaders. We will continue to support the most vulnerable groups, advocate for their rights, and defend those at risk of prejudice and persecution. Lebanon matters, and in 2019, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II said that Lebanon was a "symbol of diversity, tolerance, and resilience." She expressed hope for the continuation of the strong bonds of friendship between our two countries for many years. Today, as I leave Lebanon as Ambassador of Her Majesty the Queen, I share her ambition. I am proud that we, the United Kingdom, continue to play our role as a steadfast friend to you—a friend to the Lebanese people."
