Lebanon is on the brink of collapse due to its domestic economic and political crises, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Another failed state in the Middle East would negatively impact strategic US interests. Lebanon requires a thorough reorientation towards stability and renewed socio-economic sustainability, which entails fundamental domestic reforms and targeted international support led by the US. The Middle East Institute (MEI) and the American Task Force for Lebanon (ATFL) are pleased to co-host the public launch of a joint policy paper, Recommendations for a Sustainable Bilateral Relationship.
What are the strategic interests the US has in Lebanon’s stability, and how can the US support Lebanese prosperity? Is the Lebanese government’s new financial recovery plan sufficient for the US to initiate support for the government? In what ways can the US best support a strong future for Lebanon?
Speakers:
Jean AbiNader
Policy Director, ATFL
Congressman Darin LaHood
U.S. House of Representatives, Illinois's 18th district
Paul Raphael
Founding Chair, Lebanese International Finance Executives (LIFE)
Mona Yacoubian
Expert group member
Amb.(ret.) Edward Gabriel, co-moderator
President and CEO, ATFL
Paul Salem, co-moderator
President, MEI
Co-Sponsor:
The American Task Force for Lebanon