22/01/2020 (Agence Europe) – The spokesman for the European External Action Service welcomed the announcement on Wednesday 22 January of the formation of the new government in Lebanon, saying it was “an essential step towards ensuring that the country can address the multiple crises affecting it”. In a statement, the spokesman called on the new government, composed of 20 ministers and headed by Hassan Diab, to “swiftly” address the country’s “acute” economic challenges and implement structural reforms to meet the needs and expectations of the Lebanese people. “Appropriate protection must be guaranteed to the most vulnerable groups in society”, he added. The spokesperson confirmed that the EU would support the country in its social and economic reforms and help strengthen good governance, accountability, and the fight against corruption. (CG)