Foreign Minister Haavisto participated in support conference on Lebanon and the Beirut explosions

On 9 August 2020, Minister for Foreign Affairs Pekka Haavisto took part in a support conference hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron on Lebanon and the explosion that shook Beirut on 4 August 2020.

“The explosion on Monday was tragic. Without delay, Finland decided to provide humanitarian aid to Lebanon and sent expert assistance to the country. In addition to relieving the immediate emergency caused by the explosion, attention must be paid to the change in the political system in Lebanon. Strengthening democracy and involving citizens are crucial to solving Lebanon’s long-term problems. This is what the masses of demonstrators in Lebanon also demand.  Finland has also supported peace and security in Lebanon and the area through long-term participation in peacekeeping activities,” says Minister for Foreign Affairs Pekka Haavisto.

Participants in the event organised as a video conference included President of Lebanon Michel Aoun, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations Amina Mohammed and leaders of several countries and international organisations.

The meeting confirmed the readiness of the international community to support Lebanon in the aftermath of the explosion. At the same time, the meeting emphasised the need for dialogue between the people and political decision-makers in Lebanon and for a profound reform of the country’s political and economic system. 

As part of the international community, Finland supports Lebanon in its massive challenges that are both short-term and long-term. 
 
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