France and the United Nations want at least 295 million euros in emergency aid for Lebanon | abroad

The conference takes place exactly one year after the devastating explosion in the port of Beirut. The drama, which left more than 200 people dead and devastated parts of the capital, represents a sad reduction in the deep social, economic and political crisis that has plagued Lebanon for years.

Shortly after the explosion, the first conference was organized in August of last year. Then 280 million were collected. “As the situation deteriorates, the United Nations estimates new needs in areas such as food, education, health and water purification at more than $350 million,” said French President Emmanuel Macron’s services.

The video conference, led by Macron and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, will bring together representatives of nearly 40 countries and international organizations. The floor was taken by US President Joe Biden, among others. Also participating in the conference are European Council President Charles Michel and Belgian Foreign Minister Sophie Villemis (MR).

The conference is just about emergency aid. Structural support for the country’s reconstruction still depends on the formation of a government capable of implementing deep reforms. Lebanon has not had a full government since Prime Minister Hassan Diab and his government team announced their resignations on August 10 in the wake of the explosion.

Meanwhile, President Michel Aoun tasked Najib Mikati with forming a new government, but already announced on Monday that the new team would not be able to participate in the commemoration of the August 4 bombing. Political turmoil again complicates his task.

See also: Jet-skiers filming the massive explosion in Beirut

See also: How the explosion shook life in Beirut