Beirut [Lebanon], March 13: Caretaker Lebanese Social Affairs Minister Ramzi Musharrafieh said Friday that he is currently working with the Syrian side to ensure voluntary and safe return of Syrian refugees, a statement by the Lebanese Presidency reported.
"Lebanon aims to take advantage of all the opportunities that may reduce the financial and social burden by Syrian refugees in Lebanon," Musharrafieh was quoted as saying during his meeting with President Michel Aoun.
The minister's remarks came following his visit to Syria to meet with Syrian officials, during which they agreed on the steps that need to be adopted to ensure a safe return of Syrian refugees to their homeland.
"Syrian authorities assured that a dignified and safe return of refugees will be achieved and guaranteed," he said.
More than 1 million Syrian refugees are registered with the UN High Commissioner for Refugees in Lebanon, while the Lebanese government estimated the exact number of Syrians in the country at 1.5 million.
Source: Xinhua