Statement by U.S. Ambassador David Hale following his meeting with Prime Minister Tammam Salam
Jun 23, 2014
Prime Minister Salam and I discussed many issues facing our two countries, including our strong support for Lebanon's security and management of the spillover from the war in Syria.
Friday's bombing – the loss of an ISF officer and the injuries to others – and the various security operations – re-enforce America's commitment to Lebanon's safety and its security. A stable Lebanon is more important than ever. Lebanon's government and security institutions are working hard and effectively to counter terrorism and maintain the country's stability. We stand by your side and offer our full support and assistance.
This is a time to close gaps so that Lebanon's security and stability can be reinforced. Upholding the Baabda Declaration and adopting a true policy of dissociation from the conflict in Syria are essential. The region's battles must not be fought in Lebanon; but that means Lebanese should not be drawn into the battles being fought by others elsewhere.
A challenge that is for the Lebanese alone is to resolve its election of a Lebanese president. For international assistance to be effective, Lebanon's friends seek fully functioning partners of governance in the presidency, parliament, and the cabinet. The decisions are for the Lebanese, but the costs of indecision will continue to be felt by everyone with a stake in Lebanon's stability and security. We urge intensified effort to elect a president.
Friday's bombing – the loss of an ISF officer and the injuries to others – and the various security operations – re-enforce America's commitment to Lebanon's safety and its security. A stable Lebanon is more important than ever. Lebanon's government and security institutions are working hard and effectively to counter terrorism and maintain the country's stability. We stand by your side and offer our full support and assistance.
This is a time to close gaps so that Lebanon's security and stability can be reinforced. Upholding the Baabda Declaration and adopting a true policy of dissociation from the conflict in Syria are essential. The region's battles must not be fought in Lebanon; but that means Lebanese should not be drawn into the battles being fought by others elsewhere.
A challenge that is for the Lebanese alone is to resolve its election of a Lebanese president. For international assistance to be effective, Lebanon's friends seek fully functioning partners of governance in the presidency, parliament, and the cabinet. The decisions are for the Lebanese, but the costs of indecision will continue to be felt by everyone with a stake in Lebanon's stability and security. We urge intensified effort to elect a president.
posted by DELTA BLOG at 9:59 AM
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