Foreign Minister Nassif Hitti met with the British ambassador to Lebanon Chris Rampling on Friday to discuss bilateral relations between the two countries and the economic situation in Lebanon.
In the meeting, Rampling affirmed his support for the economic reform in Lebanon.
Without disclosing much information, Rampling stated that the UK will continue its aid to Lebanon’s education sector.
He was quoted by the NNA as saying, “Education is the most important of all, thus, we have provided a lot of assistance in this regard.”
According to Rampling, the UK has dedicated an electronic platform to connect students with educational institutions in Lebanon.
He added that the British embassy will strive for more assistance.
In a tweet after the meeting, Rampling stated that the UK will continue to support the Lebanese army, the security forces, the educational sector, and the most vulnerable.
Earlier this week, a UK initiative “to align donor activities with the needs of Lebanon and its people” was initiated in the Ministry of Interior.
“Lebanon’s path to recovery from this crisis must start with reforms. There is no other magic solution.”
Chris Rampling
Rampling also met with MP Ibrahim Kanaan. They discussed international aid to Lebanon and the current economic situation in the country.
During the meeting, Rampling stressed that the key to international financial support and restoring confidence would be to start reforms.
The UK is not the only country stressing reforms as the only solution. Italy, France, Egypt, and the U.S. have sent the same urgent message to Lebanon.
Reforms, reforms, reforms…
As a matter of fact, France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian is due in Lebanon next week to meet with officials.
Also next week, Lazard’s financial advisor to Lebanon is set to arrive with the aim to untangle the IMF talks, in hope that both parties could finally move into real negotiations for a prompt solution.