Scott Morrison says nation supports Lebanese Australians’ push for systemic reform in Beirut
Prime Minister Scott Morrison says he understands Lebanese Australians’ desire to see political and economic reform in Beirut but has downplayed Australia’s power to influence this outcome.
The devastating explosion in Lebanon’s capital has inflamed anger against government corruption, negligence and economic mismanagement, and has reignited calls from the Lebanese people for systemic change.
World leaders have told Lebanon financial aid offered towards recovery efforts will be dependent on its government addressing these concerns.
Mr Morrison said Australia backed the push being led by French President Emmanuel Macron, but its role in effecting change should not be overstated.
“Australia is not going to pretend to a role in this issue that we don’t have,” he told reporters in Canberra.
“Of course, we want to see Lebanon as a functional, prosperous state. I think all Australians of Lebanese heritage would certainly want that.
“But at the same time, I don’t want it to suggest that Australia is playing some sort of direct interventionist role in terms of seeking those types of outcomes.”
The Australian government committed a further $3 million towards relief efforts for survivors following a virtual emergency meeting with world leaders on Sunday night.
International donors have together promised around $416 million towards recovery efforts in Beirut.
The aid will be coordinated by the UN and delivered directly to the Lebanese people – in a clear indication that no money is going directly to the government.
SBS
