New York, United States: The United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Tuesday that his country is working closely with Lebanon to help it overcome the prevailing unprecedented economic crisis.
“We are working very closely in support of Lebanon in a number of ways, particularly working through the incredibly challenging economic issues, and very much supportive of Lebanon moving forward in dealing with these challenges, including with the IMF,” Blinken said before his meeting with Lebanese caretaker prime minister Najib Mikati in New York. .
“At the same time, I think it’s quite extraordinary that we see even as Lebanon is dealing with these acute challenges the incredible generosity of the country, particularly in giving refuge to so many people from conflict, I think the highest number of refugees per capita of any country in the world – something we greatly admire and also are trying to find ways to help you continue to support.”
Prime minister Mikati thanked Blinken for his support and the opportunity to talk about Lebanon’s problems. .
“I know what you are doing directly and indirectly – directly through USAID, through your embassy in Beirut, and all the help done to Lebanon,” Mikati said. “And indirectly I know that the Lebanese army is in your mind and you are giving great help to the Lebanese army”.
He also thanked Qatar and the other countries for their generous donation.