WASHINGTON, Dec 15 (Reuters) – The World Bank on Thursday approved a lending program for Lebanon to help the country meet economic challenges as it transitions from three decades of Syrian domination.The bank’s Country Assistance Strategy (CAS) proposes lending Lebanon from $100 million to $700 million between 2006 and 2009 depending on Beirut’s ability to carry out fiscal and structural reforms, the World Bank said in a statement.

The World Bank’s board of directors expressed support for Lebanon and emphasized the importance of implementing structural reforms."This meeting represented a strong vote of confidence in Lebanon," said Joseph Saba, Country Director for Lebanon. "The government recognizes the challenges that lie ahead and has shown commitment to tackling them."

"What remains is to launch a national dialogue involving all branches of the government and the society in working towards a social, economic recovery plan," Saba said.

The objective of the CAS is to help Lebanon transition from reconstruction to development, the World Bank said.