Germany Commits $64 Million in Aid to Lebanon Amid Political Unrest

BERLIN: Germany has committed to providing Lebanon with 60 million euros (USD 64 million) in aid, as announced by Chancellor Olaf Scholz ahead of an international donors conference in Paris. The pledge was made during a phone conversation between Chancellor Scholz and Lebanese Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati, underscoring Germany's support for Lebanon during its ongoing political and economic turmoil. According to Kuwait News Agency, the German government spokesperson revealed that Chancellor Scholz communicated his country's solidarity with the Lebanese people and emphasized the need for a new political process in Lebanon. This announcement comes as the German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock visits Beirut to engage with local officials on strategies to reduce tensions in Lebanon and the wider region. The aid pledge is part of a broader effort at the Paris international aid-pledging conference, which will see representatives from 70 countries and 15 international organizations convening to address the humanitarian crisis in Lebanon. The conference aims to mobilize resources and support for Lebanon as it grapples with severe economic challenges and political instability.