On Tuesday 26 February, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Federica Mogherini, underlined the importance of EU-Lebanon security cooperation.
“We are working together to build a [...] safer Lebanon. We are cooperating with your police - with the Lebanese Armed Forces - in a number of areas, from border control to airport security and training”, she explained at the inauguration of the new EU delegation in Beirut, adding that the EU was also working with Lebanon on its security sector reforms. In her view, the work being done in the defence and security sector “is essential, not only for the security of Lebanon, but also for European security”.
The EU's annual action programme for Lebanon, which focuses on promoting the rule of law, strengthening security - including border management - and combating terrorism was allocated €18 million for 2018. In March 2018, the High Representative also announced an additional €50 million to support security in the country until 2020 (see EUROPE 11983).
Ms Mogherini reiterated the EU's continued support for the unity, sovereignty, stability and territorial integrity of Lebanon. “The EU continues to fully support UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon) in its role in maintaining stability on the southern border”, she added.
In addition to security, the EU and Lebanon are working together on many issues. “Today, we have regular political, economic and social dialogues. Our bilateral trade has increased steadily every year, and investing more and more in Lebanon is a priority for us”, the High Representative said. Trade between the EU and Lebanon has grown steadily in recent years with an average annual growth rate of 7.5% since 2006 and a total trade of around €7.7 billion in 2017, according to Commission figures.
During her first visit to the country since the new government came to power at the end of January (see EUROPE 12185), Ms Mogherini reiterated the EU's commitment to continue to assist Lebanon in the implementation of its reform programme and to support the government and host communities affected by the Syrian crisis. The EU is also working with Beirut to strengthen the rule of law and respect for human rights, create jobs, make better use of natural resources and promote academic exchanges.
In addition, the British government announced on 25 February that the Lebanese Hezbollah movement would be completely banned in the country, calling it a “terrorist organisation”. According to the government, it is no longer possible to distinguish between the already banned military wing of the movement and the political party. The Lebanese government includes two ministers who belong to Hezbollah. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)