U.S. announces additional 36 mln USD aid for Syrian refugees in Lebanon

The U.S. Ambassador Elizabeth Richard announced Friday additional aids of 36 million U.S. dollars for Syrian refugees in Lebanon, directed through UN agencies and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

"We have just made an additional contribution of 36 million dollars to provide for the humanitarian needs of refugees and Lebanese host communities here in Lebanon," Richard said in an interview by local media.

The aid is the latest package of assistance from the U.S. which has provided millions of dollars in recent years for Lebanon in humanitarian, development and military areas.

The money would go to "UN agencies and NGOs which are serving both refugees and the Lebanese," she said, adding that the aid would focus on health care for poor children, basic primary care and health vaccinations, as well as water and sanitation projects.

The ambassador stressed that her country supports the return of Syrian refugees to their country "when conditions permit."

"Support would continue to be provided for refugees and host communities to survive, to thrive, and to educate children," she added.

Richard took office in May this year, replacing David Hale who served between September 2013 and October 2015. Endit