The European Union Ambassador to Lebanon, Ralph Tarraf, emphasized the need for Lebanon to swiftly regain its ability to make and implement political and administrative decisions. He noted that this requires, at a minimum, the election of a president, the formation of a fully empowered government, and reaching agreements on appointing other senior officials. He highlighted the importance of Lebanese people forming a common understanding of how to address the presence of a large number of Syrian refugees in the country. "It is time for decision makers to focus on what can be done and executed," he stated.
Tarraf made these remarks during a celebration for Europe Day, attended by MP Fadi Alama representing Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, and Minister of Interior and Municipalities Bassam Mawlawi representing caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati. "This is the first Europe Day I host since my appointment as the EU Ambassador to Lebanon nearly four years ago. The years have been difficult—together we experienced the revolution, the COVID-19 pandemic, the Beirut port explosion, and the economic crisis. It is too early to say that Lebanon has emerged from the danger zone, but the options are clearer and under discussion to find a way out of the multiple crises facing Lebanon."
He added: "Over the four years I have worked in this beautiful country, I have participated in many discussions and initiatives to tackle the various challenges facing Lebanon, and our focus has primarily been on three fronts: First, it is essential to pay appropriate salaries to public sector employees, including security forces, ensure their functioning, and stop the brain drain. Some want to go further, calling for a comprehensive review of the entire political system. However, this is a discussion that must primarily be conducted among the Lebanese themselves.
Second, we all agree on the necessity for Lebanon to find a solution to the economic crisis as a priority. Monetary and financial reforms can restore the very necessary liquidity to the economy, stop the slip into an unregulated economy, and rebuild the troubled banking system. Implementing the measures agreed upon with the International Monetary Fund over a year ago could pave the way for an economic recovery program, with assistance from the Fund and the international community, including Europe.
Third, it is crucial for the Lebanese to form a common understanding of how to deal with the presence of a large number of Syrian refugees in the country. The public discourse in Lebanon has recently focused on describing the problems and challenges stemming from the presence of Syrian refugees. This is certainly understandable, given the very large number of refugees in Lebanon, but I believe it is time for decision makers to focus on what can be done and executed, in concrete and specific terms, to address the challenges posed. The safety, dignity, security, and well-being of all people in Lebanon are at stake here."
He concluded by stating, "In these difficult times, Europe remains in solidarity with Lebanon, providing support to the most vulnerable groups. However, our commitment goes beyond mere support. We recognize the immense potential of Lebanon and the Lebanese people, and we are committed to helping the country unlock this potential."
