[ad_1]
French President Macron gives Lebanon three months, then wants to travel to Beirut again and see the reforms implemented. Relief funds could only flow permanently in the event of serious political changes.
French President Emmanuel Macron urges Lebanon’s political leadership to reform. During a visit to the Lebanese capital, Macron warned that long-term international aid would only be paid for if reform measures were launched in October. Then there will be a “follow-up mechanism,” he announced.
Macron also proposed a new international donor conference. Under the auspices of the United Nations, this could take place in Paris in the second half of October, Macron said. The progress in Lebanon is there. Macron stressed that the international community must continue its efforts for the Lebanese. The leaders of the political forces in the Mediterranean country had agreed that a new government should be formed in the next 15 days, Macron said.
Macron does not rule out sanctions
The former ambassador to Germany, Mustafa Adib, was appointed prime minister on Monday. Paris does not interfere, Macron stressed. “It is not up to me to appoint the leaders,” said the head of state. At the same time, he did not rule out sanctions if there was no real change in the next three months. “This is the last chance for this system.” Macron announced another visit. In December he plans to travel to Lebanon again “to do the rest,” he said.
Macron attended a celebration north of Beirut to mark the 100th anniversary of the founding of Lebanon. There he planted a cedar, the country’s national symbol. As a former colonial power, France still maintains close ties with Lebanon.
Macron visited the port again to get an idea of the situation four weeks after the devastating explosion. More than 180 people died and more than 6,000 were injured.
A country in crisis
For months, Lebanon has been experiencing one of the worst economic and financial crises in its history. The corona pandemic and the explosion have made the situation worse. Much of the population has fallen into poverty and the country is threatened with national bankruptcy. Lebanon is one of the most indebted countries in the world. The country is also in a deep political crisis. The government resigned after the explosion. Hopes now rest on the new Prime Minister Adib. “This is the first cornerstone of a new stage,” Macron said.
But that is not enough for many Lebanese. For months there have been repeated massive protests. The protesters accuse the political elite of corruption and self-enrichment, among other things. He is calling for a fundamental reform of the political system. Germany and other countries also joined this call.
