EU Official Says Major Aid to Lebanon Depends on IMF Deal

European Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarčič speaks during a press conference at the EU headquarters in Beirut, Lebanon, Friday, March 31, 2023. (AP)

A European Union official visiting Lebanon said Friday that the international body will increase its humanitarian assistance to the crisis-struck country, but that more significant long-term aid depends on reforms and a deal with the International Monetary Fund.

EU Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarčič said at a press conference following his two-day visit that the EU will provide 60 million euros (more than $65 million) in humanitarian assistance to Lebanon in 2023, a 20% increase from last year.