Lebanon’s crisis of hundreds of thousands of displaced people remains a critical concern, and France is taking an active role in providing aid. In partnership with the CMA CGM company, the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs (MEAE) and its Crisis and Support Centre (CDCS) successfully shipped nearly 60 tonnes of humanitarian supplies to Lebanon on Thursday, 12 March. The shipment was overseen by M. Nicolas Forissier, Minister Delegate for Foreign Trade, M. Philippe Tabarot, Minister for Transport, and Mme Tanya Saadé, President of the CMA CGM Foundation.
The shipment, which included vital medical equipment and pharmaceutical products, was intended to support the local medical teams and humanitarian organizations in Lebanon. With the logistical expertise provided by the CMA CGM Foundation, the operation was made possible through the free use of a plane from the CMA CGM Group, marking the first French humanitarian flight to Beirut. The aid delivered includes 14.2 tonnes of medicines, 9.8 tonnes of child nutrition products, 9.5 tonnes of shelter equipment, and solar lamps, along with 2,700 mattresses and ground sheets. These supplies are being distributed to the Lebanese Health Ministry, hospitals, and NGOs operating in the country.
The humanitarian materials aim to boost the capacity of medical personnel and organizations facing an overwhelming influx of displaced people. The emergency supplies are being sent to organizations such as the Lebanese Health Ministry, Hôtel-Dieu de France hospital, and NGOs like Première Urgence Internationale, Solidarités International, and the Order of Malta. These resources will help medical teams on the ground address the urgent needs of those affected by the crisis.
In response to this ongoing crisis, the French government, led by the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, continues to engage in diplomatic discussions with American, European, and Middle Eastern partners to find a resolution. These efforts have been underway since 28 February, underscoring France’s commitment to supporting Lebanon during this difficult period.
