Naharnet

EU, Lebanon strengthen partnership in transportation, energy, environment and water

The European Union and Lebanon held Thursday a 4th meeting of a Sub-Committee on Transport, Energy, Environment and Water, the EU delegation to Lebanon said.

"The meeting builds on ongoing efforts to strengthen cooperation in key sectors, which the EU has significantly supported in recent years, amid current challenges," the European delegation said.

The agenda centered around updates on EU transport policies and their implications for Lebanon, including discussions on the new EU Maritime Strategy and Ports Strategy. The parties reviewed recent developments in Lebanon’s civil aviation, maritime transport, and land transport infrastructure, emphasizing the need for robust reforms to improve efficiency and safety.

The energy sector discussions underscored the importance of enhancing Lebanon's institutional energy framework, particularly following the establishment of the Electricity Regulatory Authority. The dialogue explored EU support for Lebanon’s energy transition and efforts to increase renewable energy production and reinforce regional connectivity.

The meeting addressed cooperation in the field of environment, emphasizing solid waste management reforms and initiatives aimed at biodiversity conservation. Both sides expressed their commitment to strengthening sustainable resource management and environmental protection.

In the water and wastewater sector, the EU and Lebanon assessed the implementation of the Water Sector Recovery Plan, and Lebanon’s progress toward sustainable and resilient water management systems, while acknowledging that implementing a progressive tariff revision and increasing subscription and collection rates are critical for strengthening the financial performance of the Water Establishments.

The discussion also addressed the ongoing climate challenges impacting various sectors in Lebanon, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions and reforms, particularly in environmental protection, energy, and water.

The meeting took place within the framework of the EU–Lebanon Association Agreement and following the EU–Lebanon Association Council held in December 2025. It was co-chaired by Ambassador Mila Jabbour from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister of Lebanon and Mr. Alessio Cappellani, Head of Division for Jordan, Lebanon and Syria at the European External Action Service.

Both parties reaffirmed their dedication to deepening cooperation and working towards alignment with European strategies to tackle shared challenges effectively. In light of the recent conflict, the European Union reaffirmed its solidarity with Lebanon and its people, and its commitment to advancing reforms and strengthening institutional capacities across these sectors.

Source: Naharnet


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