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EU foreign policy chief worried by expulsion of Syrians from Lebanon

“Lebanon must ensure that no deportation takes place outside the framework of its international obligations,” Ashton’s spokesperson said

STRASBOURG, August 4 (Itar-Tass) —— Catherine Ashton, the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy voiced concern about the recent expulsion of Syrians from Lebanon.

“The High Representative is concerned by the recent reports of expulsion by the Lebanese authorities of Syrian nationals to Syria. As a party to the U.N.­ Convention Against Torture, Lebanon has a clear legal obligation that no person is returned or extradited to a State where they could be subjected to torture,” Ashton’s spokesperson said in a statement on Saturday, August 4.

“Today Syria is in a situation where people's lives are at risk across the country, including well documented reports of torture. Lebanon must ensure that no deportation takes place outside the framework of its international obligations, and that effective and transparent procedures are in place, in consultation with all appropriate domestic and international organisations in particular with U­HCR,” the spokesperson said.

He went on to say that “the Lebanese government has given assurances with regard to the respect for its international obligations and has extended support to those fleeing the violence in Syria. The EU is assisting the Lebanese authorities in addressing the constraints and challenges this situation places on the country, in terms of rule of law, protection, safety and security, social and economic development.”

The spokesperson reiterated the European Union’s expectations concerning “the responsibility of the Lebanese authorities to continue to provide protection, in line with the principle of non-refoulement”.