Lebanon: Statement by the Spokesperson on the government formation

The European Union welcomes the announcement that President Michel Aoun and Prime Minister Najib Mikati signed a decree forming a government in Lebanon on Friday.

The political, economic and social crises in the country have deteriorated markedly in the last months and weeks, the existing severe difficulties for the Lebanese people having been further aggravated by crippling power and fuel shortages. It is a matter of urgency to implement the measures and reforms needed to address the multiple crises affecting Lebanon, including an agreement with the International Monetary Fund.

This is what the new government must now focus on, with the active support of the parliament and other state institutions. All parties involved should show the same resolve and ability to compromise, to adopt without delay the measures needed to ensure that the immediate needs and further legitimate expectations of the Lebanese people are met.

Additionally, preparations for the municipal, parliamentary and Presidential elections next year must start in earnest and ensure that they are free, fair, and transparent. We welcome Prime Minister Mikati's statement that elections should take place on schedule.

The European Union stands together with the Lebanese people in their efforts to overcome the challenges their country is currently facing.