Brussels, 07/03/2005 (Agence Europe) - The situation in the Lebanon, mass demonstrations against the Syrians, resignation of the government and constant pressure on the Head do State, has caused the planned discussions for implementing an “action plan” for the Lebanon as part of the EU's neighbourhood policy” to be held back. An EU delegation expected to go to the Lebanon for a working visit was adjourned while waiting for the appointment of the new government in Beirut. The outgoing Lebanese government gave the green light two months ago for beginning negotiations on the “action plan, explained a Lebanese source. Benita Ferrero-Waldner, the Commissioner for External Relations solemnly submitted the Lebanese Ambassador with report on 2 March, which was made public the same day. The report aims to begin discussions on the action plan (EUROPE 3 March pp 7 and 8). These discussions are expected to begin without the entry into force of the association agreement at the end of the ratification procedure by the parliaments of the Lebanon and EU Member States (which already approved the text for the agreement in December). Two countries have still not signed: the Netherlands and Italy. The same Lebanese source sharply criticised the delay of these two countries but are still hoping that the agreement will be ratified and implemented in the next two months.
The Lebanon sees EU support as essential in the coming period. According to the Lebanese press, any prolonging of the political crisis affecting the country could aggravate the stagnation of economic activity. A director at one of the main banks, Byblos, affirmed that the Lebanon is “at a cross roads, the economic situation could go either way” depending on the development of Syrian and Lebanese relations. He warned that a rapid end to the political crisis was needed, which if not forthcoming would see capital flows dry up. The press has reported on the declarations of the Council of bishops (Maronite), which fears “an economic collapse” if the political crisis is not swiftly mastered.