Italian Government expresses satisfaction with outcome of European Council discussion on Lebanon

The Italian Government expresses its satisfaction with the outcome of the European Council's discussion on Lebanon, which was added to the agenda at Italy's request in order to explore what further initiatives the European Union can put in place to support the stability of this Middle Eastern nation.

The EU Heads of State and Government undertook to continue supporting the most vulnerable people in Lebanon, including refugees, internally displaced persons and host communities in need, as well as to provide support to combat human trafficking and smuggling. In particular, it was highlighted that there is an urgent need to achieve conditions for safe, voluntary and dignified returns of Syrian refugees.

In view of the eighth Brussels Conference on Syria, to be held in June, the European Council has also invited the High Representative and the Commission to review and enhance the effectiveness of EU assistance to Syrian refugees and displaced persons in Syria and in the region.