German Minister Visits Lebanese Civil Defense, Affirms Continued Support

German Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development Reem Alabali-Radovan visited the Lebanese Civil Defense Center in Tawhida-Beirut, accompanied by the Deputy Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Thair Al-Sharida. They were received by the Director General of Lebanese Civil Defense, Brigadier General Imad Khreish, and 80 civil defense personnel from various regions across Lebanon.

A statement issued by UNDP noted that the visit "highlighted the continuation of German support to the Lebanese Civil Defense, affirming its vital role in protecting local communities and responding to emergencies throughout Lebanon, amidst accumulated crises and pressures resulting from conflict, climate risks, and limited public resources."

The statement added that "with funding exceeding USD 6.6 million from the German government through the German Development Bank (KfW), UNDP has enhanced the capabilities of the Civil Defense and provided equipment across Lebanon. This support includes the construction and equipping of two Civil Defense centers in Miniyeh and Al-Minara, as well as the provision of fire engines, ambulances, rescue equipment, personal protective gear, and fieldwork tools."

During the visit, the minister and her delegation observed a field exercise and toured an exhibition of equipment funded by Germany and provided through UNDP, to see how continued investment in emergency services contributes to operational readiness, responder safety, and emergency preparedness.

The statement indicated that "the visit confirms the ongoing partnership between the German government, UNDP, and the Lebanese Civil Defense to strengthen public institutions, support first responders, and improve assistance provided to those affected by armed conflict and crises across Lebanon."