Visiting Lebanon, the Minister of Foreign Affairs promised, Friday, July 24, 15 million euros in aid to Lebanese schools. Jean-Yves Le Drian declared that France would not leave "Lebanese youth alone" to face the economic crisis which has hit the education sector hard. This French aid will go to a network of more than 50 French and French-speaking establishments.

The economic crisis has affected almost all facets of life in Lebanon. Since last year, nearly half of the Lebanese population lives in poverty and 35% of the working population is unemployed, according to official statistics.

Finally, the currency fell to lose more than 80% of its value against the dollar. Faced with the crisis, many schools are in danger of closing their doors. Parents, who struggle to pay school fees, enroll their children in already overcrowded public schools. 

>> See also: THE DEBATE - Crisis in Lebanon: Implosion soon?

Arrived Wednesday evening in Lebanon, Jean-Yves Le Drian declared that France could only help the country to face the crisis if the Lebanese officials act by putting in place essential reforms. "This country, it must be said, is on the brink of the abyss and if actions are not taken, then it risks becoming a country in adrift", he assured the press, after visiting a school.

France criticizes Lebanese leaders

In default, Lebanon adopted a stimulus plan at the end of April and promised reforms. But the negotiations started in mid-May with the IMF remain at a standstill.

"Everyone knows the path to take, there are ways of recovery. France is ready to support them, provided that the political authorities take the decisions," added the minister who had already adopted the day before a your very critical attitude towards the Lebanese leaders.

The head of French diplomacy did not hide his annoyance after his meetings Thursday with the main political leaders, indignant at the "passive side of the Lebanese authorities".

The minister thus reiterated Paris' wish for Beirut to complete its negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to obtain aid and notably reform the electricity sector. "These are France's requirements and I believe I have been heard," he said.

With AFP and Reuters

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