Member of the “Strong Republic” bloc (Lebanese Forces), MP Fadi Karam, affirmed that the bloc will participate in Wednesday’s parliamentary session dedicated to discussing the one-billion-euro grant from the European Union.
“This session differs from its predecessors and falls within the framework of the Parliament exercising its supervisory role,” he said.
Karam emphasized in an interview with “Voice of Lebanon” the necessity for Lebanon to have a unified stance in approaching international aid aimed at alleviating the burdens of the Syrian displacement, regardless of its destination. He stressed that aid should not be linked to the presence of undocumented Syrian citizens on Lebanese territory.
“Sovereignty cannot be bought or sold,” he stressed.
Regarding the expected recommendation in Wednesday’s session, Karam said, “The important thing is to start from a single vision that does not prolong the stay of displaced Syrians.”
Concerning the exchange with Speaker of Parliament’s right-hand man, MP Ali Hassan Khalil, who was tasked by Berri to gather opinions ahead of Wednesday’s session, Karam confirmed communication ongoing between various parliamentary forces to reach a single recommendation that emphasizes the strength of the Lebanese stance regarding the Syrian migration crisis.
Regarding the pressures Lebanon might face should it reject the grant, Karam said, “If we stand united in defending our sovereignty, laws, and protecting our existence, no one can pressure us,” he assured, adding that “alarmism doesn’t work with us; otherwise, we would have lost our dignity and sovereignty.”
