European External Action Service (EEAS) spokeswoman Nabila Massrali called on Monday evening for the swift appointment of a government in Lebanon, following the nomination of Najib Mikati as Prime Minister-designate (see EUROPE 12764/26).
“It is now of crucial importance that a credible and accountable government is formed in Lebanon without delay, one that is able to address the severe economic and social crises the country is facing”, she said in a statement.
The spokeswoman called on Lebanese political leaders to cooperate and allow the rapid formation of a “credible and capable government, in the interest of the people of Lebanon”.
She re-emphasised that the implementation of key governance and economic reforms remained “of utmost urgency”.
Lebanon is committed to implementing the December 2020 Reform, Recovery and Reconstruction Framework (3RF) and the reform process must closely involve the country’s civil society, the spokesperson highlighted.
Moreover, according to Ms Massrali, effective talks for a quick agreement with the International Monetary Fund must begin immediately to avoid a financial collapse in Lebanon.
Finally, preparations for the 2022 elections must begin in earnest to ensure that they are held on time, she added.
While the EU remains ready to assist the Lebanese people, it is imperative that the Lebanese leadership fulfils its political responsibilities and opens the way for a quick resolution of the crisis, the spokesperson warned.
Asked about the sanctions regime against Lebanon for which foreign ministers had given their political agreement on 12 July (see EUROPE 12760/12), Ms Massrali said that the legal work was still under way and that the aim was to complete it by the end of July. It should be an empty legal framework at this stage. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)