The Netherlands has allocated €140 million to support Lebanon for the next four years, Dutch Foreign Minister Hanke Bruins Slot announced in Beirut on Monday.
The announcement came amid concerns in Lebanon over an aid package from the European Union last week to provide €1 billion to the Lebanese government over three years to prop up the country's economy and help prevent a surge in refugees leaving for Europe.
The EU aid package has sparked outrage among Lebanese, primarily due to concerns that it might push Syrians to permanently settle in Lebanon.
The outrage further culminated on Monday when head of the Lebanese Forces Samir Geagea said his party will “continue exerting all efforts until the last illegal migrant leaves Lebanon.”
Following a meeting with her Lebanese counterpart, Abdallah Bou Habib, on Monday, the Dutch Foreign Minister expressed great appreciation for Lebanon for hosting the largest number of displaced Syrians despite the great burden it bears. “I understand that this has a huge impact on Lebanon and its people,” she said.
Slot noted that The Netherlands supports the Lebanese army, which works to strengthen stability. “We also support rebuilding the private sector in Lebanon, which contributes to the development of the country, in cooperation with the European Union. The Netherlands has allocated an amount of €140 million for the next four years,” she added.
This is Slot’s first visit to Lebanon.
The Dutch Minister said her country is committed to the relationship with Lebanon and that she spoke with Bou Habib about the importance of stability in the Middle East.
Slot also discussed the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel, saying, “We would like to resolve the crisis and reach a quick agreement regarding the current negotiation, and thus an immediate ceasefire, the return of the prisoners, and for the agreement to be a foundation upon which a lasting peace can later be built.”
The Dutch Foreign Minister then highlighted "the importance of immediately halting the deteriorating situation on the southern Lebanese border between Israel and Lebanon.”
She said The Netherlands is concerned about the escalation of the conflict and regrets the loss of civilian lives because of its negative impact on Lebanon and the region. “It is extremely important that we avoid expanding the cycle of violence.”
Slot then asked for a diplomatic solution and count on France's efforts. But, she said, Lebanon also plays a role and Resolution 1701 must be adopted as a basis for lasting peace. “We urge both sides, including Hezbollah, to contribute to implementing Resolution 1701 through field action, and also to support the Lebanese army.”
Meanwhile, the LF leader said his party’s position on the issue of the illegal Syrian presence in Lebanon is a firm, principled and sovereign stance that does not change with a billion euros or tens of billions, and does not change with an international request or wish.
The illegal presence of Syrians on Lebanese soil cannot continue and is not subject to discussion, according to Geagea. “The only thing that is up for discussion is assistance in their deportation, not assistance in keeping them in Lebanon,” he affirmed.
On Monday, Hezbollah said it refuses to negotiate a ceasefire in south Lebanon or to discuss any arrangements for the southern Litani area before the Gaza ceasefire.
The head of the Loyalty to the Resistance parliamentary bloc, MP Mohammad Raad, vowed that the war between his party and Israel is not just a military or a balance of power battle.
At a memorial service, he said, “This battle aims to offer a model of dedication to the preservation of the homeland and the preservation of humanity. We offer jihadists who have the highest moral and humanitarian characteristics and do not target civilians but only its enemies.”
In return, he accused Israel of presenting the ugliest image of a cruel human.
