The majority of our aid is going to defense spending, likely from American defense contractors.
$220 million will help the Lebanese military, possibly by funding such items as small arms ammunition, vehicles, spare parts and training
+
$184 million to support the international peacekeeping mission in Lebanon
+
$60 million to train and equip security forces
+
$5.5 million for de-mining
I'm all for Lebanon having their own military and security forces, but this seems to be a better deal for defense contractors than the Lebanese Government.
$50 million to fund reconstruction-related projects vs. ~$470 million for defense/military purposes.
Furthermore, the $250 million in cash comes tied to economic reforms. Apparently, the US doesn't even need the World Bank or IMF to induce structural adjustments.
Last edited by KEN-JENNINGS (2007-01-24 17:27:14)