"The UK continues to be at the forefront of responding to the Government of Lebanon’s urgent needs in response to COVID-19 and will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with Lebanon in facing this crisis. In unprecedented times, this crisis requires a joint effort from all of society, here and around the world", said British Ambassador to Lebanon Chris Rampling during his announcement of UK support that has reached well over $2 million so far.

The British Embassy issued the following statement on Thursday:

"The UK’s rapid response to COVID-19 in Lebanon is well over $2 million so far, as our work continues to adapt and redirect funds of our existing programmes. Through the World Health Organisation Lebanon, the UK has provided over $400,000 for specialist medical equipment to bolster public healthcare services. We are also providing critical support totalling $500,000 to the Disaster Risk Management Unit (DRM) in the Prime Minister’s office to ensure their operation at increased capacity in supporting COVID-19 committee to coordinate with local governorates through December 2020. Through our other programmes, we are also supporting the Palestinian Civil Defence providing $135,000 for preventative lifesaving work in the camps raising awareness on disease prevention. We are also supporting the Internal Security Forces with over $1 million to coordinate and implement the Government of Lebanon’s response and keeping communities safe.

The UK recognises the unique challenges posed by COVID-19 to all countries. Our work continues with international partners to adapt and re-direct funds to support our response to COVID-19 in Lebanon and manage secondary impacts ranging from economy, child protection, education, loss of livelihood and stability. It remains critical that through UKaid we continue to focus our support on containment and the most vulnerable households across Lebanon, refugees and Lebanese, at this difficult time."