Kataeb leader Samy Gemayel said that the Syrian refugees make up half of Lebanon's population as their estimated number has transcended 1.5 million, warning that their presence poses an existential threat to the country.

Speaking at the European People's Party political assembly in Brussels, Gemayel said that the lingering refugee crisis is entailing social ane economic repercussions on Lebanon, stressing the need for tangible measures to ensure the Syrians' return to their homeland.

The Kataeb leader called on the European Union and the United States to take practical steps that would mirror their serious commitment to returning the refugees back to their country, urging an EU delegation to visit Lebanon to discuss this matter wih local officials.

The EU must spearhead endeavors to devise serious solutions with the key players in the region, Gemayel stressed.