Grant from the European Union worth 45 million Euros

The European Union and the Ministry of Social Affairs announced new funding from the European Union worth 45 million Euros. For the first time in many years, "EU funding will be directly allocated through a Lebanese government institution. This represents a new phase in their partnership, as they will work more closely with national institutions to provide support to citizens across the country," according to an EU statement.

The announcement was made at the Grand Serail, in the presence of Minister of Social Affairs Hanine El Sayyed, Minister of Finance Yassine Jaber, and EU Ambassador Sandra De Waele.

The statement indicated that "EU funding includes 40 million Euros for the 'Aman' program – the national cash assistance program in Lebanon – to cover five months of payments for 90,000 Lebanese families out of 150,000 currently eligible families. An additional 5 million Euros will also be allocated to support institutional reforms in the Ministry of Social Affairs, including updating the beneficiary database to ensure aid reaches those who deserve it in the most effective ways."

The Minister of Social Affairs said: "This direct support from the European Union is an important moment of trust in Lebanese national institutions and in the Ministry of Social Affairs. Through the Aman program, we reach the most vulnerable Lebanese families across the country with one clear goal: to reduce poverty and protect dignity. This funding is not limited to providing cash assistance; it is an investment in stronger systems, more accurate data, and more transparent implementation, in line with the reform and recovery vision of President Nawaf Salam's government."

For her part, the EU Ambassador said: "For the first time in many years, the European Union is entering into a direct partnership with the Lebanese government. This reflects our trust in the Ministry of Social Affairs and its ability to implement reforms to be more inclusive and effective in reaching those most in need."

The European Union affirmed its commitment to standing by the Lebanese people, "both in times of crisis and in the path of recovery and reform."