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European Neighbourhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations (DG NEAR)
News article24 March 2020Directorate-General for Neighbourhood and Enlargement Negotiations

Lebanon: High Representative Josep Borrell spoke to Minister of Foreign Affairs Nassif Hitti

High Representative/Vice-President Josep Borrell held a phone call with Lebanese Foreign Minister Nassif Hitti on Monday, 23 March. They focused on the regional impact of the coronavirus outbreak and the current economic and financial situation in...

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High Representative/Vice-President Josep Borrell held a phone call with Lebanese Foreign Minister Nassif Hitti on Monday, 23 March. They focused on the regional impact of the coronavirus outbreak and the current economic and financial situation in Lebanon. The phone call took place shortly after the informal videoconference of the EU Foreign Ministers chaired by HR/VP Borrell on the international aspects of the coronavirus as well as the situation in Syria.

High Representative Borrell and Minister Hitti discussed measures that can be taken together to address the coronavirus pandemic. The structural reforms to be implemented in the Lebanese economy as well as the management of the country’s debt were also addressed.

In relation to the situation in Syria, the High Representative underlined the European Union's appreciation for Lebanon’s generosity in hosting Syrian refugees and underlined substantial support the EU is providing both to them and to Lebanon in this regard. In touching upon the current domestic challenges in Lebanon, High Representative Borrell reiterated the need for political leaders and parties to take into account first of all the interest of the country and needs of its citizens and reiterated the EU’s continued support to Lebanon and its people.

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